Tips for Managing Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression generally presents as early as one week after childbirth.  Symptoms of postpartum depression include sadness, worry, hopelessness, restlessness, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating and overall loss of energy.  It can also present as being uninterested in your baby or feeling like you're not bonding with them.  PPD differs from "baby blues" in that the feelings are more intense and last longer than two weeks after childbirth. 

Here are some tips for dealing with postpartum depression.

Tip 1:  Give Yourself Grace

Becoming a new parent can be an incredibly challenging experience.  Unlike most medical procedures, there's no time for recovery; immediately after giving birth, you're entrusted with the care of not just yourself but also a precious new life. It's a huge responsibility! Navigating all the "right" ways to care for your baby can be daunting and we all inevitably make mistakes along the way.  Give yourself and your partner the grace to make those mistakes and keep at it.

Tip 2: Know You Are Not Alone

1 in 8 women experience some form of PPD after childbirth.  That's a staggering statistic.  Having postpartum depression does not make you a bad mom!  Chances are someone else in your circle has experienced something similar. Things completely out of your control can cause PPD including genetic predisposition and hormone changes. 

Tip 3:  Ask For Help

It is essential to remove the stigma around postpartum depression; everyone should feel comfortable asking for help.  There are a variety of treatment options for PPD ranging from lifestyle changes to medication.  You do not have to feel this way!  We are here to help, reaching out is the first step to feeling better.

Many moms struggle with postpartum depression after childbirth .  We are here to help those who are struggling.  If you or someone you know is experiencing PPD, please call or book an appointment online.  It's time to break the silence, foster understanding, and provide support to those who need it most. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!