
Are you suffering from Postpartum Depression (PPD) or are your baby's sleep causing stress?
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Postpartum depression is a medical condition that can occur within the first few months following childbirth. It is caused after delivery and biochemical changes.
PPD can affect all women in different ways and at different degrees. However, these symptoms may help your doctor diagnose the condition. Although you might not experience all of the symptoms listed above, your doctor may still be able to diagnose you with PPD.
Postpartum depression can include, but is not limited to:
- Feeling helpless, worthless, or inept
- Frequent crying or tears
- Energy deficiency
- You lose pleasure in activities that you enjoy.
- It is difficult to do everyday chores
- Appetite loss
- Feelings that are characterized by sadness, despair, guilt or panic.
- Extreme mood swings, feelings of anger, or anxiety
- Memory loss
- Overconcern about baby's safety
- Fear of losing control
- Be afraid that you might hurt your baby
- Escape from your baby or family
- Resignation from routines and social circles
- Thinking about how to hurt yourself
Call a doctor immediately if you are suffering from postpartum depression. Now is the best time to call a doctor. A doctor can assist you if your condition warrants immediate medical attention. Talk to your partner, mother, father, sibling, or close friend to arrange for medical care. This is for you and your baby. You can also take this page and give it to someone you care about. It is that important. This is not a way to live.
How to take care yourself
When you have a newborn, it can be difficult to prioritize self-care. Basic self-care can make you a better parent and help to alleviate postpartum depression. It means getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising - even if it's just walking around the block in a stroller or in a carrier with your baby.
You should take a nap during the first weeks of your baby's life. Even if you only get one nap, you'll be able to enjoy your baby and get through your day more easily. Others who love you will offer to look after your baby so that you can get some sleep. Accept their offer! It is also a nice gesture to allow grandparents, auntie, or your best friend to spend some time with the baby. You can also snooze if baby is asleep if you don't have any help.
It is important to eat healthy food now. However, it is best to eat simple meals as trying to make complicated recipes can add stress to an already busy schedule. Do not worry about housework. The most important thing in the first few months is to get you and your baby on the same page and creating a routine that works for you both.
Important tip: If you are suffering from postpartum depression, accept help whenever it is offered
Be open to the offer of help from someone you love if you are suffering from postpartum depression. When someone offers to help you, let them know: a nap or a meal? A load of laundry? People who care about your well-being will offer to help if they are asked. Would you mind washing my laundry?" or "You are a lifesaver!" Do you mind if I take a quick nap and have a quick shower?
Part of caring for your baby is taking care of you. Be the best parent possible - happy and healthy. The NO-CRY SLEEP OPTION: Gentle Ways for Your Baby to Sleep Through the Night.