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Post-partum depression is a condition that many women experience after having a baby. It can last for a few days, or as long as a few years, with symptoms getting milder in time. Women can have post-partum depression with one or all of their children, and according to Dr. Gilbert Webb in St. Louis, it doesn’t only affect a certain age, demographic or ethnic group. There are some ways to treat the depression, and help new moms get back on track.
Educate Yourself
One of the smartest and most important things that you can do is learn about your condition. You may even wish to talk to your doctor before you deliver the baby, so you know the symptoms to watch out for. Learn the risk factors to see if you might be prone to this type of depression. There are many articles online, and links like USNews that talk about understanding your symptoms, as well as books that you can read.
Time After Delivery
Don’t think that you have to do everything on your own after you have the baby. Ask friends and family for their help. If it’s the first grandbaby, then grandparents are usually more than happy to help take care of the little one for a time. See if friends can prepare a meal, or try to even get help cleaning your house. Take some time for yourself, even if it’s just taking a bubble bath, or reading a book.
Talk About Your Feelings
If you feel sad after the baby is born, or upset in any way, talk to the nurses at the hospital, or contact your doctor to let the office know what’s going on, because there are some things that can be done. Your doctor can write a prescription for a mild antidepressant to help you get through the day. If you can, find a friend who has gone through post-partum depression to talk to, so you do not feel alone.
Exercise
This is something that will not only make you feel better about yourself, but will also help you lose the baby weight you gained. Find a park to go walk in, and if you need to, take the baby in a stroller. Join a gym, or get a group of friends together to exercise at your house. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that make you feel better physically and mentally.
Post-partum depression is something you can live with, but you don’t have to suffer alone. Research the signs of the condition, and make sure you don’t keep your feelings to yourself. Stay active, and take some time out after the baby is born.