First of all, it is important to recognize why the depression is occurring. Was the pregnancy difficult? Was the delivery traumatic? Does the baby have any problems? Root cause analysis is always an important part of treatment. Once you are mentally aware of what is triggering the depression it makes it much easier to accept it and combat it.
In terms of combating depression there is no one size fits all for treatment and symptoms usually go away themselves. But to help you cope below are some tips and clinically proven advice. Any form of exercise that you like whether it be walking, swimming, jogging, dancing or yoga are all going to be very beneficial to combat the depression. Exercise boots serotonin levels which is our bodies “happy hormone”.
In addition to exercise it is very important to keep hydrated with 2/3 liters of water a day. Keep up taking multivitamins as they contain active ingredients which can also help restore mental balance.
Your own health matters too, with a new baby changes can be overwhelming and all of a sudden this new little human being become’s our life. This can contribute to feelings of depression. Whilst it is important to be there for the little one you shouldn’t neglect your own health and mental well being. Ask for help! There should be no shame in this. A few hours once a week ask trusted family member or friend to watch over baby. You can be home taking a bath, reading a book, catching up on sleep or doing something you used to enjoy pre-pregnancy.
If you still feel depressed after following the above steps then we recommend that you seek medical attention via your GP who should be able to offer more support and tests if needed.
It is important to mention that feelings of sadness following delivery can be split up into 3 groups.
1) 2 days blues
2) Post natal depression
3) Post natal psychosis
Whilst 2 day blues are common on going post natal depression is not. Therefore do seek medical attention or alternatively search for self help groups online or in your local area, talking to other mum’s also helps.
We wish you a speedy recovery post birth and hope you feel better soon.
*Disclaimer- all our advice is general and based on the limited information provided to us in each question- always consult your GP for advice and guidance if a problem persists*
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