Postpartum depression and anxiety are serious mental health issues. If you or someone you know are experiencing either and your symptoms feel unmanageable, please seek out the help of a qualified medical professional. You will feel better, and there is hope. You are not alone.
One in seven new moms will suffer from postpartum depression. And 10-15% of new moms suffer from postpartum anxiety. Many women in the Pink Stork community have struggled with these, and some of our Pink Stork employees have, too. Yet, 1 in 5 women won’t talk about what they’re experiencing.
First of all, there’s nothing wrong with you if you’re suffering from postpartum depression and anxiety. They’re complications from giving birth, not something wrong with you as a person or a mother.
What is postpartum depression and anxiety? Postpartum depression is a deep feeling of sadness, mood swings, crying spells, difficulty sleeping, or recurring negative thoughts in the postpartum period. Postpartum depression is more serious than the baby blues, as it feels more intense and can affect your ability to do daily tasks, like take care of yourself or your baby. Postpartum anxiety is worrying constantly as a new mom. You may feel dread or like you’re in danger, racing thoughts, and stress. While anxiety as a new mom is totally normal, postpartum anxiety is characterized by extreme and irrational worries. You may also experience Postpartum OCD, which is suffering from fears that you’ll harm your baby.
Lack of sleep, a history of anxiety, hormonal shifts, stress, and having a baby with health issues can all factor into postpartum anxiety. Difficulty breastfeeding, financial problems, and issues with your partner may also contribute to postpartum depression. In order to recover from postpartum depression and anxiety, it’s important to seek help from a qualified medical professional. Medication and cognitive behavioral therapy can help you overcome these issues. Talk to friends or family members who can also support you during this time. Relaxation, meditation, and mindfulness exercises can also support you as you recover.
As far as dietary and lifestyle changes, make sure you're getting enough Omega-3s, which have been shown to support mood. Exercise, get fresh air, and eat whole foods. Try to get enough sleep. Enjoy our Postpartum Mood Gummies.
You will get through this, and you will be stronger and more compassionate because of it.
Sources: MedicalNewsToday, Mayoclinic.org, whattoexpect.com, healthline.com.
