Beating the Postpartum Blues Healthily and Effectively
Beating the Postpartum Blues Healthily and Effectively
In the early postpartum period, new mothers face stressful and anxious situations due to various factors.
Mainly sleep deprivation and coping with the new demands involved in caring for a baby.
Not to mention, coping with increased environmental stress and changing social status. It is normal and you never have to suffer in silence.
Many mothers go through tough times, and therefore speaking up is the first step. Some mothers have traumatic births.
This could have caused them to be out of action for a while. It may have been something a little more serious, such as a birth injury, which may have left you dealing with the fallout.
In this case, you can always seek professional assistance from knowledgeable birth injury attorneys.
Is It Normal to Feel This Way?
Hormones play a key role in how women feel following birth. As with any woman, month to month her hormones can play havoc on her body.
Mood swings, low energy, loss of appetite, and withdrawal from social activities. After birth, the hormones are even crazier!
So in one way, it is perfectly normal.
Periods of euphoria can come and go. Sometimes we are left with anxiety or depression. Postpartum depression is a cause for concern.
Not only in terms of the well-being of mothers but also because of the risk it poses to the baby.
Surround Yourself with Support
Of course, a supportive family that takes an active role in the care and well-being of the baby may significantly reduce these adverse effects.
However, some of the symptoms are not treatable, especially around the attachment processes between the baby and the mother.
Many women may want to seek out therapy. There are plenty of support groups. In addition to this, you can look at some other tips to help you feel more like yourself.
Try to Implement Exercise
If possible, seek out ways to exercise. Exercise promotes endorphins in the body, which leads to a higher level of serotonin in the body.
Although exercise may feel like the furthest thing from your mind, something small, such as a walk in the park is important. Take your baby along with you, for a little fresh air and interaction.
Join a swimming class or do some Pilates at home. Pilates helps strengthen the core muscles following birth. Always consult your doctor first, especially if you are on medication.
Listen to Music or Podcasts
Another way to lift your mood is to listen to uplifting music and Podcasts for mothers. Stay away from things that trigger you, and focus on the people who make you smile. You don’t have to suffer in silence.
Eat and Sleep Well
There are certainly many issues that can occur during and after pregnancy. None of them are invalid; so be sure to speak out. Eating healthily is important, plenty of omega-3 rich foods help.
Lastly, try to get a good sleep pattern. Being a new mother often comes with deep bags under the eyes and sleepless nights; however, try to plan better.
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Sleep when your baby sleeps. Nap where you can, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
I think the best thing you can do is reach out and ask for help if the baby blues turn into something more. You are not alone and you will get through the postpartum blues!
Have you been through postpartum blues?
-Dr. Drayman
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I am a retired GP that is passionate about health, parenting, and helping others. I am a grandparent to 3 amazing little boys and mama to 2 incredible women.