Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression(PPD) is a kind of depression that is experienced by the pregnant moms and can last for weeks after the birth of the baby. It is sometimes confused with "baby blues"(which means mood swings, crying spells, anxiety) but if neglected it can turn into an extreme mood disorder called postpartum psychosis.

The prolonged months of bearing a child inside the womb isn't something easy. Once a woman overcome the labor pain, she's handed over a few pieces of paper to sign, and then she is left with a brand-new human being. She is appointed for a new career as an unpaid litigator who needs to remember everything; from vaccination to poop timing, nap timing blah blah blah! She might feel angry, exhausted with the same routine-Feed, Clean, Hold. For some it might take a long time to feel like being a mother. But that doesn't mean it's a character flaw; it's a type of feeling that is not at all an anomaly and is very much valid.

What causes postnatal depression?

• Physical issues: Just after the labor is done, a mother experience a dramatic hormonal change inher body produced by the thyroid gland which can leaveher to feel tired, sluggish and depressed.

• Emotional issues:Notall mom but some cannot get enough sleep due to the double responsibility of their child aswell as other chores. This might let her feel alone and she have to struggle with her sense of identity or feel that she have lost control over her own life, leading to depression.

How to cope up?

The best solution to deal with postpartum depression can come from therapists or psychologists who have experience in treating women with PPD.

Blogs and the digital parenting communities have allowed moms to drill down online and seek out like-minded parents for real connections and valuable advice from kindred spirits. One can find real, unvarnished stories of imperfect motherhood. For example "Sex and the City" girl, Alanis Morissette's pregnancy at 45. Through group therapy, a mom can learn that bringing a baby into this world changes everything.

Exercise is the happy drug for new moms!During exercise their bodies go through cardiovascular and biochemical changes. These changes create happiness, build a positive mood, decrease depression, reduce anxiety and stress, boost confidence and increase energy. It is such a positive outlet for moms to rebuild not just their bodies, but their minds too. It give moms a break from duties and allows them to feel normal again.

Besides all these, one can reach out to friends or relatives who’ve had babies. And sleep is must. Sleep deprivation is a huge factor in depression.