Becoming a parent is an introduction to a whole new world of emotions, including joy, fear, and excitement. Experiencing the “baby blues” is common in new mothers, but this tends to pass shortly. Postpartum depression, however, can be severe and persist for weeks, months, or even years. You can do several things to help improve the symptoms of postpartum depression, but take care. The health of you and your child requires that the condition be taken seriously. Nearly 20% of women experiencing this condition keep their symptoms to themselves, even though effective treatments are available.
Tips For Managing Postpartum Depression
One thing that sets postpartum depression apart from the “baby blues” is that postpartum depression rarely passes on its own. It’s been known to persist for extended periods, even years, if left untreated. Women experiencing this condition occasionally will experience a desire to harm themselves or their children. If you’ve experienced this or have it right now, place your child in their crib and reach out to someone. In addition to speaking to friends and family members, you can contact one of the following hotlines.
- Suicide Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
- Talk: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
- Postpartum Depression Moms Hotline: 1-800-PPD-MOMS (1-800-773-6667)
The first and most important thing to know about PPD is that it is imminently treatable. Some medications and treatments can help effectively manage your symptoms. Your first step should be reaching out to your healthcare provider. You are not at fault for your depression or the intrusive thoughts you’re experiencing, and these feelings do not indicate that you’re a terrible parent.
Combined with help and support from friends, family, and medical professionals, these tips can help manage your symptoms.
- Spend Bonding Time With Your Child – The bond between parent and child is powerful. Bonding successfully will help you ensure your child can develop feelings of safety and security. It will impact how they form relationships and communicate throughout their lives. Skin-to-skin contact is essential to their emotional health and well-being, so work this into your bonding time.
- Take Care Of Yourself – It’s essential that you take care of yourself by eating right, getting enough exercise, and finding time to relax and unwind. Getting enough sleep is also essential. This is particularly difficult for women with PPD as it can make sleeping more difficult. However, getting any sleep, especially quality sleep, can help improve your symptoms.
- Connect With Others – Connecting with other mothers can help immensely as you share your experiences. However, connecting with anyone is essential. Reconnect with old friends, speak to your family, and hang out in the park where children play, and their parents spend time.
Learn More From Summit Women’s & Wellness Medical Group
If you’re concerned you’re experiencing symptoms of Postpartum Depression, it’s time to reach out for help. This condition can be extremely serious and can lead to tragedy if left untreated. The Summit Women’s Medical Group team is ready to help you experience a long and healthy life with your child. Call us today at 909-736-9091 and take an important step by scheduling an appointment at our Rancho Cucamonga, CA office.
