All About Baby Blues
The birth of a new baby is typically the most joyous time in your life. With this joy also comes one of the most stressful times for you and your family.
As many as eight out of every 10 women experience the baby blues, which can last up to two weeks. Many times the emotions felt after having a baby are caused by normal changes with your body.
These feelings include:
- Sadness
- Excessive crying
- Anxiety
- Irritablility
- Loss of energy
When the baby blues don’t go away you could be suffering from postpartum depression. There is no way to tell who will experience postpartum depression. Women of any age, race or economic status can experience these feelings. Postpartum Depression is a treatable illness.
Use this checklist if you feel like you are suffering from postpartum depression. You should seek immediate help from your healthcare provider if you begin experiencing severe signs and symptoms of postpartum depression which include:
- Sadness
- Guilt
- Loneliness
- Hopelessness
- Unable to make decisions
- Mood swings
- Appetite Changes
- Excessive crying
- Anxiety
- Low self-esteem
You should seek immediate help from your healthcare provider or call Phoebe’s Behavioral Health Center at 229-312-7000 immediately if you experience the following symptoms:
- Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby
- Strange visions
These are serious signs that depression has worsened and you need immediate help.
Helpful Things to do for the Baby Blues
Your emotional well being is just as important as your physical health throughout the course of your pregnancy and beyond. Remember to:
- Talk to someone. Tell that person about your feelings.
- Ask your family or friends for help with childcare, chores and errands.
- Write down your emotions and feelings. This helps you to express your thoughts and frustrations.
- Set goals each day and celebrate event he small accomplishments. There may be days when you accomplish less than expected, but do not get frustrated. Take one step at a time in the right direction.
- Don’t expect to be a “supermom.” Be honest about how much you can do and do not feel guilty for what you cannot get done.
- Take time for yourself when possible.
- Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids.
- Talk with your healthcare provider about how you feel. He or she may offer counseling and/or medications that can help.
For more information about the baby blues or if you need emotional support, please call 229-312-7000.