Postpartum depression was said to occur due to lack of vitamins, however now it is thought that the most plausible cause for this problem could be the significant changes that take place in a woman’s hormones at the time shortly after childbirth.
You may do everything right and still get the baby blues, and in some cases this can escalate to postpartum depression in which case it is important to:
- Recognize the symptoms for what they are and get help. This can be a fairly serious condition if left untreated and can even impact the baby negatively.
- It makes sense to join a support group where you can share stories and experiences, get and offer advice all of which can help a new mom feel that she is not alone. And it is not important to join an actual physical group; there are plenty of online forums that offer valuable support.
- Ask for help. It’s OK to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope because of a new baby in the house and the extra physical and emotional demands that it places on a new mother. Ask friends or relatives for help; if required get paid help.
- It is important to seek professional help such as counseling for postpartum depression; and not just wave it aside as just something that you have to take.
- Lastly remember to enjoy your baby. Many of us forget how much fun little babies are, how very entertaining and endearing; so take time to actually enjoy that gift of life that you hold!