6 Keys to Preventing Postpartum Depression
We all know that managing our emotions is no easy task. But it’s not impossible. The solution is often simpler than we think. No matter what you’ve heard, preventing postpartum depression is possible through the adoption of good habits.
Good habits are a set of actions that complement each other, provide well-being and, consequently, allow women to function in their role of mothers right away.
Are you ready to put these keys into practice and enjoy a more peaceful and healthier life? Let’s get down to it, then.
6 keys to preventing postpartum depression
1. Learn about motherhood
When it comes to preventing postpartum depression, being informed is always a good idea. To do this, it’s best to consult official medical resources, books or simply ask your trusted doctor.
He’ll always be the most qualified person to clarify your doubts and offer you accurate and updated information.
2. Eat properly
It’s important to keep in mind that good nutrition isn’t only important when the baby is in the womb. In reality, eating properly is also extremely vital after you’ve given birth.
The balance of nutrients favors the correct functioning of the body, which results in well-being.
3. Try to get good amounts of sleep
When reaching this point, you’ll surely have realized that knowing how to take care of the basic aspects of life greatly improves your daily routine and how you feel without any difficulties whatsoever. It’s all about adopting good habits to live well.
If one thing is certain, it’s that the first months after the baby is born are exhausting for parents (especially for the mother). However, this doesn’t mean she should deprive herself of getting rest.
Many mothers choose to go to sleep when the baby is also asleep. Others prefer to have their families over and help out however they can. Both options are valid.
Lack of sleep can have a negative impact on people. Not sleeping well can make us be extremely irritable, which causes poor management of emotions, leading to actions that we, more often than not, end up regretting.
That’s why it’s very important for you to get enough rest to avoid postpartum depression.
4. Take some time off
Another very simple but effective key to preventing postpartum depression is taking time to distract yourself. Don’t be afraid to take some time off and do something that makes you happy.
Clearing the mind through fun activities and a good breath of fresh air helps to recover energy and put aside all those things that may be bothering you at the moment.
In other words, mothers need time to be alone. They need to feel free, do whatever they please, and take a break from all the responsibilities that motherhood implies.
It’s important to note that taking time for yourself doesn’t mean you’re a bad mother. On the contrary, it means you’re trying to take care of your health and your mental state so that you can perform your role as a mother even better.
Sometimes it’s enough to simply go on a walk, sit on your garden for a little bit or take a relaxing bubble bath. Others prefer to watch movies in the company of other people. All of this depends on each mother and her preferences.
5. Don’t neglect your relationship with your significant other
It’s normal for relationships to change a little bit once the baby arrives. Now, in order not to neglect love, you must allow everything to flow naturally. Be careful not to force anything, let things be the way they’re supposed to at that moment.
The key here is teamwork: mutual support, gestures of affection, collaboration, and a fair share of responsibilities. Remember that it’ll definitely be easier if you stick together. It will help both of you feel good and you’ll be able to maintain a healthy and loving relationship.
6. Express and take care of yourself
When it comes to preventing postpartum depression, it’s important to vent. Expressing yourself is a great way for you to feel better on a psychological level.
If you notice that something’s been bothering you for a long time, if you feel like something isn’t right; if you have mixed feelings about a certain thing and don’t know how to deal with it, avoid keeping quiet and let it all out instead.
Keeping your feelings bottled up inside will eventually do you more harm than good. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone you trust about what’s going on inside you.
It’s important to note that, if you feel like your thoughts are getting too intense for you to handle, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
On the other hand, try to maintain good communication with your partner so that you don’t feel alone. It’s easier to find a solution to things when having someone else’s company and support.
Always keep in mind that every problem has a solution and that it’s just temporary. Although being a mother isn’t easy, it’s definitely a worthwhile experience. Cheer up!
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
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- Mendoza, C., & Saldivia, S. (2015). Actualización en depresión postparto: el desafío permanente de optimizar su detección y abordaje. Revista médica de Chile, 143(7), 887-894. https://scielo.conicyt.cl/scielo.php?pid=S0034-98872015000700010&script=sci_arttext
- Miranda Moreno, M. D., Bonilla García, A. M., & Rodríguez Villar, V. (2015). Depresión Postparto. Trances.
