Being a mother is a powerful and life-changing journey with a sprinkle of joy and challenges. For many new mothers, the time after childbirth can bring unexpected emotional challenges, often leading to postpartum depression (PPD).

While it’s normal to have mood swings, anxiety, and trouble sleeping, PPD is a more severe and long-lasting form of depression. It can affect your ability to care for your baby and manage daily tasks, often leaving mothers feeling alone, overwhelmed, and guilty.

The most common symptoms of PPD are as follows:

• Feeling persistently sad or hopeless
• Crying excessively
• Having severe mood swings
• Finding it hard to connect with your baby
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Feeling extremely irritable or angry
• Fearing that you’re not a good mother
• Having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it’s important for you to consider the following.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

The first step in managing PPD is to accept your feelings without judgment. It’s okay to not feel okay. Society often expects new mothers to only feel happiness, but it’s normal to experience a range of emotions. Your feelings are valid and recognizing them is an important step in healing.

Surround yourself with support

You don’t have to face postpartum depression alone. Talk to your partner, family, or close friends about what you’re going through. Sometimes, just having someone listen can make a big difference. Getting professional help is also crucial. Speak to your healthcare provider about your experiences. They can provide resources such as counselling, therapy, or medication tailored to your needs. Many communities also have support groups where you can connect with other mothers facing similar challenges.

Taking Care of Yourself

Caring for a newborn can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to make time for yourself. Self-care is not selfish; it’s necessary for your well-being and your ability to care for your baby. Here are some ways to include self-care in your routine:

• Rest whenever you can: Try to sleep when your baby sleeps, as fatigue can make depression symptoms worse.
• Nourish your body: Eat balanced, nutritious meals and stay hydrated.
• Gentle exercise: Activities like walking or yoga can boost your mood and energy levels.
• Mindfulness and relaxation: Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a few quiet moments can help manage stress and anxiety.

Bond with your baby

Postpartum depression can make it hard to connect with your baby, but there are ways to nurture this bond. Skin-to-skin contact, gentle rocking, singing, and talking to your baby can all help create a sense of closeness. Now, bonding takes time, and it’s okay if it doesn’t happen right away. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. There is hope and there is help. Your strength, even in moments of struggle, is a powerful testament to the love you have for your child.