Leaning On Others When Suffering From Postpartum Depression


Ten to 15 percent of women can experience moderate to severe depression following the birth of a child. This type of depression, known as postpartum depression, is more than what is known as the “baby blues” and can last anywhere from six weeks to a year.

While there are medical treatments and therapies that can help new moms and women who have just given birth overcome this depression, finding and feeling the support is important.

Many women find it helpful to receive support from others. Whether it comes from groups, friends or family members, support is a light of hope for many women who feel alone or that their depression is overwhelming.

Reaching Out

Aside from medication and therapy, there are several actions you can take to overcome postpartum depression. Even though you may feel like you want to be alone, being around loved ones or just people who may be experiencing similar feelings can be helpful in coping.

When you're feeling depressed, it is important to maintain your relationships and connections with friends and family members. Mothers who have just given birth can be feeling overwhelmed with new mom priorities. Interactions with other people can help you unwind and relax after a long day.

Isolating yourself and distancing yourself from people around you can make you feel even more depressed. Although you may feel like no one will understand you, family and friends are still interested in helping you, even if it is just to hear you out.

Finding Support

As with any type of depression, it can be helpful to find at least one person around you to went out and lean on as an emotional outlet. Keeping your feelings inside can lead to feeling overwhelmed and take you into a deeper depression.

Surrounding yourself with people who are feeling similar things as you and going through the same transition into motherhood as you can provide a feeling of reassurance. There are several support groups out there that focus on providing new mothers with an environment where they are able to share their worries, insecurities and feelings with other women who are experiencing the same emotions. Consult your doctor or your baby's pediatrician to find support groups around your area.

Source: Help Guide



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