New Mums and Postnatal Depression

According to NHS Choices, Postnatal depression affects “more than 1 in every 10 women within a year of giving birth.”
Postnatal depression also called postpartum depression doesn’t happen to only women; it happens to men as well. Research has shown that postnatal depression can happen within one or two months after childbirth.

What exactly is postnatal depression?
According to Beyond Blue, “Postnatal depression (PND) is when a woman experiences depression that develops between one month and up to one year after the birth of a baby.”
Childbirth is an important event in every woman’s life. As a woman, you may go through different moments at different stages of childbirth and it is important that you receive proper education and enlightenment that can help during those moments.
Postnatal depression is one of such things women experience and more light need to be shed on it for our Nigerian mothers.

How do you know if you have postnatal depression?
According to Babycentre.co.uk, if you are feeling these symptoms below on a regular basis as a new mum, you may have Postnatal depression:
• Sad or Low
• Unable to Enjoy Anything
• Extremely Tired, With No Energy
• Hopeless
• A Sense of Guilt
• Lacking in Appetite
• Miserable
• Tearful
• Anxious

If you think you have postnatal depression, here are some of the ways to get over it:
1. See your Doctor: As a new mother, if you have noticed you experience some of the above symptoms on a regular basis, then you should see your doctor. Your doctor will give you the medication, tips, and resources you need to get over your postnatal depression.
2. Avoid watching scary things: Avoid watching those of your favourite mystery or horror movies or even reading such books that could scare you or make you start thinking scary thoughts. You need to be very intentional about the kind of content you consume, you also need to ensure that you choose your thoughts wisely.
3. Surround yourself with supportive people: It is not everyone that will understand what you are going through, and as such may not be empathic. You need to consciously surround yourself with people who will support you.
4. Avoid having a busy schedule: You don’t need to overload your schedule with so many things. Consciously choose to be stress-free and do only the things that matter.
5. Maintain a healthy diet: Eat healthily and avoid junks. Eat nutritious meals that will fortify your body. In addition, avoid skipping meals and include fruits and vegetables in your diet.
6. Get lots of rest: Avoid over-stressing yourself. You need to get some good and quality rest. One of the ways you can easily do this is to get enough sleep when your baby sleeps.
7. Exercise: To feel better in your body and mind, one of the things you can do is to exercise. Set out time for daily exercise.

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