As psychologists and therapists, we often encounter women experiencing varying symptoms of depression following childbirth. The majority of women experience typical baby blues, but some women experience more severe symptoms that meet criteria for postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression can often be mistaken for typical baby blues and may have a long-term impact on the new mother and her infant. Symptoms of postpartum depression may begin shortly after childbirth, but may also appear up to six months after the baby is born. Mothers who experience severe symptoms often face difficulty caring for their babies and they often become consumed by guilt due to their perceived inability to nurture their infants.
It is best to consult with an appropriate professional to determine if you are experiencing typical baby blues or if your symptoms are better explained by a postpartum depression diagnosis.
Contact a licensed psychologist at the Orlandini Psychology Group today if you feel like you are experiencing symptoms postpartum depression. We would also like to provide you with a few tips that could help improve your mood.
Ask for Help
Ask your spouse or family for help when needed. It is important to let those around you know how you feel and do not be afraid to ask for help. Surrounding yourself with family and loved ones will provide you and your infant with support. Additionally, many mothers benefit from attending support groups with other women experiencing similar symptoms.
Get Enough Sleep
Make sure you are getting enough sleep throughout the night. Although you may feel as if it is impossible to sleep with a new baby, it is important for you to get some rest. Ask your spouse or family members to help you out when possible so you could catch up on needed sleep. Also take advantage of your baby’s naps to relax and rest whenever possible. Every little bit counts!
Eat Healthy
You may be so busy preparing formula or breastfeeding that you may forget to nourish your own body. Eating nutritious and healthy food will help increase your energy without the need for additional caffeine or sugar.
Exercise
Exercise is an important component of living a healthy life. The endorphins you gain as a result of exercise will help you feel energized and ultimately improve your mood. Putting your baby in a stroller and going for a walk is a great way to exercise with a baby.
If you continue to struggle with postpartum depression, you may benefit from the help of a professional psychologists.
The licensed therapists here at the Orlandini Psychology Group are highly qualified and are experienced in treating postpartum depression.
Contact us today. We can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is postpartum depression, and how does it differ from baby blues?
How can new mothers recognize if they have postpartum depression?
What are some recommended strategies for managing postpartum depression at home?
Why is it important for mothers with postpartum depression to seek professional help?
How can lack of sleep contribute to postpartum depression?
Sources
- Postpartum depression - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org)Nov 24, 2022 ... Learn the risk factors and symptoms of depression in new mothers, as well as effective treatment that can help you manage symptoms and bond ...
- Postpartum depression - Office on Women's Health (womenshealth.gov)Oct 17, 2023 ... Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that involves the brain and affects your behavior and physical health.
- Perinatal Depression - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)Although postpartum blues are much more common than perinatal depression, patients should be assessed at every postnatal visit for a diagnosable mood disorder ...
- Perinatal Depression - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (nimh.nih.gov)Mood changes and feelings of anxiety or unhappiness that are severe or last longer than 2 weeks after childbirth may be signs of postpartum depression. Women ...