A new addition to the family can be exhausting, intertwined with joy, excitement, fear or anxiety. It’s perfectly normal to feel this way in the first few weeks after childbirth. Hormonal changes, like the drop of estrogen and progesterone, makes us more emotional and vulnerable during this period.
However, it may morph into something more significant for some new mothers – the Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is common. 1 in 10 women who give birth suffers from postpartum depression and they may not realise it as the symptoms may be subtle and dismissed as simply part of being a new parent.
Postpartum depression happens gradually and anyone can experience it. Women who are depressed during pregnancy and post-delivery, who had previous mental health conditions, little family or social support, financial or emotional worries are at higher risk of getting postpartum depression. Women of Gestational Diabetes (GD) or High Blood Pressure are also at higher risks.
Here are some signs to watch out for;
∙ Constantly feeling sad or hopeless
∙ Excessive crying
∙ Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
∙ Loss interest in activities you once enjoyed
You’re not alone. Postpartum depression is not a sign of weakness or a reflection of your abilities. It is a treatable medical condition with treatment options. Don't feel ashamed! Reach out for help to navigate this challenging time. Talk to your doctor, therapist, or a support group for new mothers. Building a strong support network with family and friends can also make everything better.
