Beat the Baby Blues
Giving birth to a newborn can be an overwhelming experience and may lead to postpartum depression. Postpartum depression can occur six to eight weeks after birth. You may even experience it up to a year after the baby is born. There is no specific cause for postnatal depression, but physical and emotional issues play a major role.
Hormonal imbalance, sleep deprivation, a difficult pregnancy, a sick or colicky baby, and pressure to return to work can lead to postpartum depression. A woman often shows symptoms like loss of interest in the baby, mood swings, and being constantly anxious and irritable, exhausted and indecisive.
Watch expert Dr. Jayanthi. R. Prasad, Psychotherapist and Counselor, talk about postpartum depression.
Use these quick tips to help you overcome post pregnancy blues.
Give time to yourself.
As a mother you play multiple roles while managing many personal chores and professional commitments. Dedicate some time for yourself every once in a while. Set aside time for physical exercise, meet new people, and indulge in hobbies that have always interested you. Never hesitate to seek help from your loved ones.
Get enough sleep.
After your little one has arrived, a good night’s sleep can be a rare luxury. It is important to get sufficient sleep. Sync your sleep with baby’s nap time.
Eat healthy food.
Studies have shown that certain foods can help uplift your mood. Eat a healthy, balanced diet to ensure your body receives all the required nutrients. Consult a nutritionist to create a diet chart to help you overcome postpartum depression.
Release happy hormones.
Breastfeeding releases a powerful antidepressant hormone called oxytocin. Most mothers who breastfeed babies for at least six months to one year are known to be more relaxed.
Massage the blues away.
Pamper yourself with aromatic herbal massage therapy. A therapeutic postnatal massage with an herbal toning massage oil can ease postpartum stress and increase muscle flexibility. In addition, a body massage induces good sleep and improves blood circulation.
Lastly, the best way to lift your mood would be to watch your little one regular milestones. So, treat the mother in you with extra love and attention because you need taking care of too.
