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Post-partum depression, also known as "the baby blues," is a very common mental condition of women who have just given birth. Sudden hormonal changes along with the fact that having a baby is a major change in a woman's life can all add to this. This form of depression usually begins around 3 days after giving birth and has been know to last from a few days to as long as a week or two.
Some of the other causes of the baby blues are also that the new mother is worried that she won't be able to take care of her baby, or that she isn't going to be a good enough mother. Some women get depressed because they miss their old way of living. Having a baby is a big responsibility and that in it self can be very overwhelming. Add the loss of freedom to come and go as easily as before. A new mother may feel left out of things because everyone is giving all the attention to the baby and not to her anymore. Also women tend to worry more about how they look so after giving birth a new mother may fear she will always look too fat or is no longer attractive, and is afraid it will always be that way. Then there are financial fears. Fear that she will be unable to provide for her new baby.
Some of the signs of post-partum depression are crying spells that start with little or no reason, feeling irritable and even angry for no real reason, rapid weight loss or gain. Loss of or increase in appetite, insomnia, lowered milk production, anxiety, feelings of being overwhelmed, confused and fatigued.
If these symptoms last longer than 2 weeks and are more severe, then you may want to seek help with a professional counselor. If your condition is severe enough that it interferes with your ability to take care of your new baby and yourself, there are medications a psychiatrist can prescribe to help with coping until things return to normal.
Some of the ways to conquer post-partum depression are to think things out realistically. Talking to a close family member or even a professional can work wonders. Take time to get to know your new baby. Spend quiet time nursing rocking and holding your baby. Remember that not woman bonds with her baby immediately after birth. Some people feel that they are horrible mothers because they don't feel that bond instantly. It takes time. You need to get to know your baby.
Make sure you are getting all the nutrients you need in your diet. Lack of vitamins can trigger depression. Take time out for yourself. There is nothing wrong with having someone watch your new baby while you go out for a couple hours. Fresh air and sunshine will do wonders for the soul. Take your baby out for walks or even just to sit out in the yard. Sunshine increases the production on seretonine in the brain and is a natural mood elevator. Being outside will make you feel less housebound.
Anytime you need help with your baby or even yourself, make sure you talk to someone. It can be a close friend, your parents, minister or your doctor or babies pediatrician. Help is always available. Remember that everything passes in time. As time goes on you will adjust to the changes in your life.
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