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Postpartum Depression

What can I do about postpartum depression?

Contact your OB/GYN or your midwife for a referral to a PPD expert who can evaluate your condition. He may suggest medication, such as antidepressants (there are breastfeeding-friendly options), and therapy. In addition, the following things can help you begin to feel better:

1. Talk to someone you trust. Sharing your feelings with someone who cares about you, even if you feel you can't talk specifically about postpartum depression, can help.

2. Knowledge is power. Reading books about baby care and parenting will help you feel more confident, which in turn will help you feel more in control of your situation.

3. Join a support group. While postpartum depression support groups are an excellent choice, any group for new mothers that allows you to share your feelings about motherhood can help you feel less isolated.

The following websites can help you find a postpartum depression support group in your area:

Postpartum Support International

Postpartum Education for Parents
 
La Leche League Support Groups

4. Accept help from others.  If anyone offers to help you⎯whether it's to take your baby for a walk, cook a meal or drive your older kids to sports practice⎯accept! You don't have to do everything yourself to be a good mother.

5. Get extra sleep. Forget about the clock. Just sleep whenever you can.

6. Relax your standards. This is not the time to worry about a spotless house, gourmet meals, the corporate ladder or the last time you had a manicure. Stick to the basics and concentrate on taking care of yourself and your baby.

7. Get fresh air.  When possible, put your baby in the sling or stroller and take a walk. The exercise and open spaces will help you feel more energized and lift your spirits.

8. Eat healthy foods. Taking care of yourself is important-focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, and making simple, nutritious, meals.

9. Eat frequently. Going long stretches without food wreaks havoc on your system. Simple snacks, like an apple with peanut butter, are easy to prepare and prevent your blood sugar from dipping.

10. Love yourself. You are going to be okay. Take it one step at a time. With help and time, you'll develop a refreshing and healthy outlook to your new role as a mother.

Meet our expert:

Elizabeth Pantley is a mother of four and the best-selling author of eight parenting books, including: The No-Cry Sleep Solution and The No-Cry Discipline Solution. She is also a contributing author to The Successful Child with Dr. William Sears. Based in Washington, Pantley is the president of Better Beginnings Inc. (a family resource and education company) and a parenting expert for a variety of publications including: Parents, Parenting and Redbook. (www.pantley.com)