Best Kept Secret To Postpartum Depression
When in comes to Postpartum Depression, it can sometimes be a bit taboo to talk about openly. We’re here to bust myths and share our best kept secret to help you if you find yourself in the depths of this nasty monster.
Signs of PPD
Some tell-tale signs of postpartum depression can be:
lack of attachment to child
lack of sleep or excessive sleep
irritability
mood swings
loss of appetite
obsessive thoughts
crying
unable to find joy in life
sudden changes in weight
thoughts of harm or suicide — saying their family is better off without them
Did you know that 8%-19% of women & 10% of men (yes, men too!) experience postpartum depression? So this topic really is one that should be talked about and how to help yourself or those you know get through it.
If you find yourself struggling with postpartum depression, first know to be aware. Be aware by being able to identify it for what it is and do your best to then take time for self care. You are experiencing a crazy change in hormones and they can be very very hard to control, but we are able to help it a bit by how we live.
“What if someone I know is experiencing PPD? What can I do to help?”
If you have found yourself in the situation of knowing someone who is going through this, whether you be a partner, spouse, friend or family, first know that it is EXTREMELY hard to ask for any kind of help when you’re in that headspace. So if they seem off or more distant towards you, know that it is not you!
First and foremost it is important to educate yourself on what’s really going on and how to be helpful to someone going through it. Education will give you the power and confidence to be able to really connect and care for your loved one. Listening to podcasts, watching Youtube videos, reading blogs (like this one!) and books is a great way to start.
How To Prevent & Prepare For PPD
practice ways to lower stress! — (Learn More about 360 Breathing) this breathing technique helps to lower heart rate and helps to release more calming/soothing hormones
sleep whenever you can!! — seriously. the dishes can wait
try going for light walks
get some much needed time in the sun!
hire a postpartum doula
Hiring A Postpartum Doula - why?
Hiring a PP doula is a sure fire way to help prevent PPD (really! More studies are showing that hiring a pp doula lowers your risk!)
We are able to educate you on the risk factors and signs of ppd while helping you remove the stigma surrounding ppd. It’s so helpful having someone to reassure you, help with some light household responsibilities (like those annoying dishes) and give practical and HELPFUL advice. This in turn helps lower your stress levels and increases sleep! (both major contributing factors to ppd)
As a Postpartum Doula we are able to connect you with mental health providers in your area if extra support is needed.
But most of all we definitely recommend you find a PPD professional in your area BEFORE you give birth. It’s much easier to call someone when you have a specific provider already picked out. I recommend this to all my clients!!