Ways to Cope with Postpartum Mental Issues

postpartum stress

The feeling of holding the apple of your eye for the first time is beyond words. It is one of the most joyous and significant life occurrences for a new mom who eagerly awaits this moment. However, even though having a new infant can be exciting and rewarding, there are also times when it can be challenging and stressful. 

This phase is called postpartum depression or baby blues. It is a mild sadness or loneliness episode that can last a few days or a week. The guidance of the best gynaecologist in Mohali and the support of your loved ones can immensely help during this time. In the meanwhile, here are some ways to handle Postpartum depression

Is Postpartum Depression or Anxiety Real?

Postpartum stress or depression is a common condition that may develop after having a child. It usually begins to affect within the first three weeks of the delivery. Women who undergo this condition might feel hopeless, sad, depressed, or guilty for not caring enough for their infant. 

Moreover, second-time mothers can also suffer from postpartum depression. The good news is that this condition is completely manageable under the consultation of the top gynaecologist in Chandigarh. Their expertise and experience can help mothers cope with postpartum stress or anxiety. 

Symptoms of Postpartum Mental Issues

According to the top gynaecologist in Mohali, the common symptoms indicate the presence of postpartum mental issues in a new mother. 

  • Irritability, anger, or restlessness
  • Sadness or a sudden feeling of crying 
  • Guilt or worthlessness
  • Over-concerned about the safety of the infant
  • No or little energy
  • Fear of hurting the baby 
  • Unhealthy eating habits
  • Chest pain, headache, rapid heartbeat, or tingling sensation in feet or hands
  • Irregular sleeping patterns
  • Trouble recalling things or making decisions
  • Not feeling like doing any activity whole day

Ways To Handle Postpartum Depression

Here are some useful tips to help you overcome postpartum mental issues.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet

Research studies reveal that what you eat significantly impacts your emotional health. So, consuming nutritious food can help improve your mood and make you happy. For instance, you can consume fermented foods like probiotics and yoghurt. Moreover, bananas, oats, berries, nuts and seeds, beans and lentils, and coffee can also help supply relevant vitamins and minerals to the body. Avoid eating processed or junk food. Instead, you can satisfy your unhealthy food cravings with these healthy options

Get Some “Me Time”

You might feel confined to nursing on the sofa. Your workload, household duties, or those of your older kids can also make you feel overburdened. Don’t try to handle these pressures alone; ask for assistance. For example, say yes to your family members’ offer of complimentary child care. Moreover, allow your partner or another responsible adult to watch the child for an hour or two. 

Setting aside time each week for “me time” could be beneficial. You can use this opportunity to unwind, even if you can only leave the house between nursing sessions. Take a walk, nap, do some easy and safe postpartum exercises, watch a video, or meditate. Experts call it one of the best ways to handle postpartum depression.

It’s Okay to Rest

New mothers often suffer from the guilt of resting or sleeping while the baby is awake. Are you also one of them? If so, please get yourself out of it as soon as possible. Do you know that the chances of postpartum depression are 3.34 times higher in women with poor sleep quality than others? It applies to mothers who sleep less than four hours at night. 

Infants usually do not sleep through the night when they are young. Therefore, you might find it beneficial to rest or get to bed early when the baby sleeps. Moreover, if breastfeeding, think about pumping a bottle so your partner can handle one or two overnight feedings. 

Source  

Avoid Isolation

The days might pass quickly, leaving you occasionally feeling alone. However, a Canadian Journal of Psychiatry study reveals that sharing emotions can improve mood and keep postpartum issues at bay. After frequently speaking with seasoned mothers who had previously experienced postpartum anxiety and depression, researchers found that women had lower levels of depression. 

This finding proves that the power of social interaction cannot be denied. So, try to get out and ask moms and other adults for help. You can also join online forums and social platforms to keep yourself busy and away from isolation. 

Create a Support Network

Sometimes, you are uncomfortable sharing your feelings with your family and friends. Creating a support network can help you immensely during this time. Many online and offline platforms can help you while you suffer from postpartum mental issues. For instance:

  • Call the official postpartum depression hotline numbers for help.
  • Join online forums to share what you are going through.
  • Call your healthcare provider, gynaecologist, or obstetrician for guidance.
  • Contact the healthcare services of your community.
  • Chat online with other mothers on issues like postpartum depression, etc. 
  • Reach out to other local support groups for assistance. 

It is one of the best ways to handle postpartum depression.

Who is at Risk?

Although postpartum depression can happen to anyone, some factors make you more prone to this condition. Make sure you share all the symptoms with your gynaecologist in such cases. 

  • Having a family history of postpartum stress or depression
  • Relationship or marital conflict
  • Limited or no social support
  • Uncertainty about the pregnancy
  • Premature birth or ailments in the infant
  • Mothers younger than 20 are usually at a higher risk of postpartum depression.
  • Infants with special needs

Bottom Line

Postpartum mental issues usually go away within six to seven months, depending on diet, sleep, and lifestyle habits. However, if you experience spells of confusion, disorientation, or compulsive thoughts, call the best gynaecologist in Mohali immediately. 

You can effectively overcome these symptoms with the right medication and lifestyle changes. Last but not least, please understand that it is just a phase which shall pass soon. So concentrate on your mental well-being, indulge in creative activities, and cherish these moments with your baby. 

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