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Coping with Post-Partum Depression

If you've recently had a baby and you feel intense feelings of anxiety or hopelessness, you may be suffering from Post-Partum depression.

 
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Feeling anxious or overwhelmed after you have a baby is normal. But if these feelings linger and intensify for more than two weeks, you may have postpartum depression. It’s important to recognize the signs and tell your doctor:

  • Feeling restless or irritable

  • Feeling hopeless or worthless

  • Crying frequently

  • Having no energy or motivation

  • Eating too little or too much

  • Sleeping too little or too much

  • Trouble focusing or making decisions

  • Withdrawal from family and friends

  • Headaches, chest pains or heart palpitations

  • Having no interest in the baby
  • Speak Up, Seek Help
    Having postpartum depression doesn’t make you a bad person or terrible mother. It’s common and these steps can help you cope:

  • Talk with your doctor, who may refer you for further evaluation

  • Rest as much as you can

  • Don’t put pressure on yourself or let others pressure you

  • Ask for help with household chores and baby care

  • Don’t hide your feelings; talk to family and friends

  • Try to get out of the house every day; don’t spend too much time alone

  • Talk with other mothers; their experiences may benefit you
  •   Last Reviewed: May 2008
      The information in this publication is intended to serve as a guideline.
    It can never replace the conversations you have with your own doctor
    and is not intended as a substitute for medical care.
    This content database is provided by and maintained by Baldwin Publishing.
    Healthcare Marketing for Print & Web. Copyright ©2008 Baldwin Publishing 800-705-6522.