If you just had a baby and find yourself feeling down, seemingly crying for no obvious reason or not quite yourself you are in good company.
Often times, with this new baby comes some emotional upheaval as mom and dad are getting used to their respective new roles as parents. That wave of emotions can come in the more mild and common form of baby blues or can progress into symptoms of a full blown postpartum depression or anxiety disorder.
Approximately 85% of women will experience some signs of the baby blues within the first couple of weeks of a baby’s life. The blues usually start within the first 2-3 days following your baby’s birth and can last for a couple of weeks.
Although it is normal and majority of women experience the blues, it is often confusing and unexpected for new moms.
After all, the expectation is that “I should be happy, I just had a baby.” Yes, having a baby is a joyous moment but it is also a magnanimous moment in a new family’s life and requires an emotional and physical adjustment.
Give yourself the time to adjust to your new role and your new bundle. The blues have been related to hormonal fluctuations that happen after the birth. As such, in many cases, symptoms will resolve on their own as mom’s hormonal levels return to their original pre-pregnancy levels.
No matter your experience, it is important to recognize that you did not choose to feel this way and that it is not your fault.
You and your body have just been through a lot; pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the transition to parenthood to name a few. As such, you and your body may need time to catch up to all these massive life altering experiences.
As mentioned above, while the baby blues will typically pass on its own, postpartum depression and anxiety really need the help and support of a professional in your area. So please reach out – you don’t have to go through this alone. Share with a friend or loved one how you are feeling, what you are thinking and what you may be needing. You will be glad you did.
Things that can help:
Nourishing yourself
Being Embraced
Seeking Professional Support
Written by Alyssa Berlin