What is postpartum Depression and?
Well, we all suffer from depression once in a lifetime. It’s intensity vary from mild to severe. There are several king of depression people suffers from. One of the hardest things for a mom-to-be to hear is that after nine months of expecting what is supposed to be one of the most important and miraculous experiences in life, instead of feeling joyful, they might feel sad, anxious, or depressed, and unable to enjoy their newborn.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is refers to condition where the new mom experiences some form of depression after childbirth. It must not be mistaken with the so called “baby blues,” which usually occur during the first weeks after giving birth and are the result of the changes that come with having a new baby at home. 50 to 80 percent of women may experience the baby blues with mood swings that can go from happiness to sadness in the span of a few hours.
Some women may feel stressed and that can lead to irritability and anxiety. The symptoms are transient and treatment is supportive.
10 to 15 percent of women experience major postpartum depression that can occur anytime during the first year. These patients often need medical treatment. As with many diseases, prevention is the best way to deal with PPD.
Causes can be multiple as well. Genetic can one of them.
So, mommies here are some handy solutions to postpartum depression:
1. Increase the intake of VitaminB
Vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid help the body metabolize homocysteine, reducing the levels in your blood. Vitamin B6 is found in whole grains, eggs, meat, fruits, veggies, legumes, and dairy products. Vitamin B12 can only be found in animal products so vegetarians should consider taking a supplement. Folic acid can be found in all green leafy veggies.
2. Eat healthy and balanced diet
Balanced diet is a solution to everything. Although animal products are a great source of the B-complex vitamins, homocysteine levels are highest in people who consume a lot of animal protein and no fruits and veggies.
3. Exercise
Do a lot of exercise to combat postpartum depression. During pregnancy and the postpartum period, it is important to exercise. This increases serotonin blood levels, which can help you decrease anxiety and feel better emotionally. Try walking, swimming, or yoga. Remember that it’s more about moving and feeling good than pushing yourself and burning calories.
4. Take enough sleep and rest
Having baby means bounded with multiple responsibilities. This may sound impossible to do with a newborn at home, but adequate sleep can make a big difference when it comes to preventing PPD. Try to rest when you baby sleeps. Do not hesitate to ask friends or family to give you a hand—this will help you avoid getting to the point where you’re exhausted or overwhelmed.
5. Drink plenty of water
Drink water as much as you can. You will feel lighted. There is a connection between dehydration and anxiety or lack of energy. Moms who breastfeed are at high risk for dehydration, so be aware of the amount of water that you are Drinking.
6. Reduce the level of stress
Try to overcome the stress level. Try to incorporate stress-reducing practices into your daily life, or continue them after birth if you already practice them. Meditation and breathing techniques can help you manage stress and face your new routine in a more peaceful way. Even a few minutes of meditation twice a day, or taking time to breathe deeply and consciously, can make a huge difference.
7. Speak up
Feeling sad during or after pregnancy is not something to be ashamed of—it is normal to feel anxious. Don’t hide your feelings. Instead seek support to help you confront your fears.
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