Postpartum Depression- A Physical Illness
I was feeling anxious, irritable, crying without provocation and felt a sense of sadness I could not rationally explain. I was losing interest in leaving the house, being around others and found myself avoiding both family and friends. With each day I could feel myself spiraling downhill.
I decided it was time to call the doctor. Something just was not right. Sure enough, went in to my appointment and my diagnosis confirmed what I suspected, Postpartum Depression. My doctor was wonderful and commended me on seeking help. Why? He said that many women sit at home and suffer in silence because of fears of inadequacy (they should be strong enough to snap out of it), stigma and embarrassment. Come to find out, this is much more common after second pregnancies then after the first.
Postpartum Depression, as with clinical depression, is not just something you can “snap” out of. These are real medical conditions that can be treated effectively.
I, for one was not about to sit at home and suffer in silence. In doing so, not only would I suffer but so would my husband and my children. I had to do this for myself, and if not for me, for my family. They deserve to have me healthy, happy and whole. I deserve to be healthy, happy and whole.
I was concerned about taking any medication, but as my doctor explained to me, this was the only form of treatment. I expressed my concerns in reference to being in a drowsy and sedated state, and my fear of any type of medication that could be addictive. I am happy to report that I am feeling much better after taking the medication prescribed, I feel more like myself again.
I wake up looking forward to the day. I feel like getting things done, my motivation is back. I am once again reconnecting with family and friends, and apologizing for isolating myself and explaining why.
Seeing a healthcare professional should be your first step. There are also steps you can do to help you deal with postpartum depression.
1. Get plenty of rest. This is difficult with a newborn, yet is necessary for your health. Do not be ashamed to ask for help. Enlist the help of others. Rest when your baby rests.
2. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Keep yourself hydrated.
3. Eat healthy foods and snacks.
4. Exercise. You will be amazed how much better you will feel after some physical activity. The most difficult part is getting started.
5. Talk. Have someone in your life you can confide in and turn to when you need to vent, cry or just talk through what you are experiencing. This could be a friend, your husband or partner, another mom, a family member or even a professional counselor. You may feel isolated and it helps to know that you are not alone.
6. If you do not have someone you can confide in or you are looking for added support, search online for postpartum support groups. Communicating with other women that are going through this or have gone through this in the past are a great source of support.
7. Take time for yourself. This is difficult with the demands of family life and especially with a new baby, but it is important for you to have some downtime. Get out of the house for a bit, visit a friend, go to your local library, do something you enjoy.
8. Write your feelings in a journal or a blog.
9. Get involved with others, do not keep yourself in isolation. Join a local moms group or church group.
10. If you feel at anytime that you are a danger to yourself or your children, get help immediately.
If you suspect that you or a loved one may be suffering from postpartum depression, or clinical depression please seek treatment. You do not have to suffer in silence.
