by SA Professional

Created on: July 17, 2009   Last Updated: October 25, 2009

How to Survive Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is an emotional and clinical disorder that takes place in women after childbirth or miscarriage. It is also referred to as postnatal depression. The stages can be mild or severe.

Statistics show that nearly 8 million households in the United States alone are affected by postpartum depression. Women in this situation need understanding, help, and sensitivity. It is the goal of this article to show women how to survive postpartum depression.

Before we get into the how to of this article, let us gain a little more understanding on the subject. Mild stages of postpartum depression can be categorized as the the baby blues.

A primary cause could be due to the decline in hormone levels. At this stage, a woman loves her baby, but she feels overwhelmed with the responsibility of being a new mom.

When postpartum depression is more severe, a woman may lose confidence in herself, fear harming her baby and others, and is mad at the world.

Make Your Needs Known!

In other words, ask for help. Don't try to be wonder woman. Also, do not expect people to be mind-readers. If you are around people you trust, tell them you are overwhelmed. Be honest about your feelings. It is not a sign of weakness to admit you are feeling challenged. You can survive postpartum depression, if you have the support of people who love you and understand your plight.

Share the Responsibility.

You can survive postpartum when you do not try to do it all yourself. Express to your spouse or partner that it took the two of you to bring this life into the world, and you need their help. Ask a partner, sister, or aunt to stay with you for a while so you can rest. If younger children are in the picture, ask them to help with things they can handle.

Spend Time With Yourself for Yourself.

This may seem like an impossible task, but it can be done. Do not make commitments that you cannot handle. Leave your child in the hands of a trustworthy person and take the time to unwind. When you make this step you are not being selfish, it is for the best interest of yourself, the baby, and everyone involved.

Follow a Healthy Diet.

In order to survive postpartum depression, a junk food diet is not the way to go. A balanced diet is a necessity. Make sure you are taking in the necessary amount of vitamins. Also, eat fish, fruit, vegetables, diary, and nuts. If you are allergic to one of these food products, then a nutritional supplement may be the way to go.

Don't Be Too Hard On Yourself.

When a new child is born, it takes time to adjust and find a new normal. Breathe and pace yourself. While it is your sincerest intent to be the best mother possible, you do have limitations. Don't be afraid to admit limitations and fear of failure. Honestly communicate your feelings with others.

Go with a Support Group.

This is an important key to survive postpartum depression. Sometimes, those close to you may not understand what you are going through and blow you off. It is good to be apart of a group that knows where you are and what you are going through. Contact your health resource center or religious organization to get plugged into a support group.

Learn more about this author, SA Professional.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.