If you keep postpartum depression to oneself or leave it untreated, not only takes a heavy toll on you, but can also affect the couple’s relationship and future child rearing. Postpartum depression is not a problem for you alone. It is a family problem.
First of all, it is important to know how to cope with it and to create an environment where you can talk about it. If you have a friend or group of friends who are new mothers or pregnant, it may be easier to talk to them.
How to cope with postpartum depression
- Take a shower every day and change your clothes properly.
- Get some sunlight every day.
- Maintain a regular lifestyle, including eating and sleeping regularly.
- Do not try to do all the housework and child-rearing perfectly.
- Talk to friends and family about what you are thinking and what is happening.
- Rest with your baby after he/she goes to bed.
An important way to cope with grief after childbirth is not to suffer alone. Worrying alone will cause negative feelings to occupy your mind. Talk to as many people as possible, including your family and friends.
It is also important to adjust your life rhythm and try not to overwork yourself as much as possible. Please take some rest when you can, because it is easy to overwork yourself by trying to do everything perfectly, such as cooking, cleaning, and raising children.
Consult with a specialized organization
Postpartum depression is a mental illness. If you think you have postpartum depression, it is important to consult your family doctor or a psychosomatic medicine or psychiatry department rather than diagnose it yourself. By consulting a medical institution, you can receive necessary treatment and counseling. Starting treatment early can also reduce the severity of the disease. If you are anxious about visiting a hospital, you can consult with a consultation service provided by each municipality. The local government consultation service can refer you to medical institutions if necessary.
In addition, mental symptoms such as postpartum depression may be difficult to notice by yourself. It is necessary for family members around you to carefully watch for differences in your usual behavior and, in some cases, recommend that you receive a medical examination.
Conclusion
Postpartum depression is a mental illness that needs to be treated. It is advisable to consult with family, friends, and medical institutions as soon as possible instead of suffering alone. Also, the understanding and cooperation of those around you is necessary. It is a good idea for your partner and other family members to understand that postpartum mothers are prone to mental instability, and to actively help them with personal care and child rearing.
