Bringing a new baby into the family can get difficult for the mother. In fact, it can also cause postpartum depression. Here’s how experts suggest you deal with it
In an interview with a publication this week, Adele revealed that she suffered from postpartum depression soon after she gave birth to her son, Angelo. So affected was she by post-natal depression at the time that she often felt like having the baby was “one of the worst decisions of her life.” Adele later sought help by talking to mothers about similar concerns.
Motherhood can indeed be a quite a challenging experience — on one hand, new mothers are caring for the baby’s health, while simultaneously getting their health on track. While it is normal for new moms to experience mild sadness, exhaustion or anxiety for the first two weeks, life coaches say these feelings, if unchecked, could spiral into a postpartum depression. Life coach and psychotherapist Khyati Birla observes, “The emotional change of having a new baby, the hormonal rise and drop that follows childbirth are some of the contributing factors. Postpartum depression, if not addressed properly, can go on to have horrible consequences, like the mother harming herself or the baby.”
Baby blues have a host of symptoms like mood swings, crying, sadness, insomnia, and irritability. With postpartum depression, suicidal thoughts and even the inability to care for the newborn are a few red flags. Khyati states that it helps to take these feelings seriously, since finding support is the first step. She says, “Identify the areas where you need help. Do not hesitate to ask for help from a counsellor or even your partner, whenever and wherever you feel overwhelmed. Share the good, bad and the ugly feelings with at least one person face to face on a daily basis”
During or post pregnancy, the hormone levels of estrogen and progesterone go down drastically, which severely affects the mood, and can lead to depression. Life coach Chetna Mehrotra says that this time can be used to take care of oneself — emotionally and mentally. Chetna explains, “Postpartum depression can be overcome with emotional support at home and psychiatric assistance. Though one can also do little things like finding time for exercise a bit each day. It also helps to rest well and keep a healthy diet — this works better than most remedies.” Additionally, a therapist can also help new mothers deal with the changes in motherhood. Chetna adds, “A lot of women may not even know that they are going through depression. Counselling can make you aware of why you are going through it and what can be done to put it away. Once you know that it is a simple case of drop in hormones, you can then focus on keeping them high and on living a healthy life.”
Helping the new mom with household chores and taking care of the baby are a few ways partners can support new moms. Parenting expert Freyaz Shroff says that educating oneself about the disorder is of prime importance. She says, “Understanding postpartum depression is key for people around mothers suffering from it.”
Motherhood doesn’t need to change a woman’s way of life. Khyati adds that helping the mother participate in relaxing or energetic activities will also go a long way. She says, “As a partner, ensure that you look after the baby and the new mother. Encourage her for a little downtime — go for a movie or let her spend some time with her friends when you can confidently take care of the baby.”
