Avon Magazine April 2021

Page 18

H OW TO B E M I N D F U L O F YO U R M E N TA L H E A LT H A S A F I R S T-T I M E M OT H E R While postpartum baby blues can last for up to two weeks after delivery, new moms may also experience a more severe and longlasting form of depression called postpartum Stepping into a new role as a first-time depression. Symptoms of postpartum mother can bring a range of emotions. Many depression may include excessive crying, women feel overwhelmed, depressed or difficulty bonding with your baby, severe anxious during their first pregnancy, and even mood swings, sleeping too much or too after delivery. Below are three tips for looking little, and lack of interest in activities you after your mental health, while also looking used to enjoy. It’s important to understand after your new bundle of joy. that experiencing postpartum baby blues or depression is not a weakness as a mother. LEARN ABOUT Schedule an appointment with your doctor P O S T PA R T U M if you begin to experience symptoms of DEPRESSION. postpartum baby blues or depression. There are many unknowns when it comes to being a first-time mother, including MAKE TIME FOR how pregnancy and childbirth will affect YO U R S E L F. your mental health. After childbirth, it is It’s nearly impossible to take care of someone common for most new moms to experience else if you aren’t taking care of yourself first. postpartum “baby blues.” Symptoms of Schedule time for activities you enjoy a postpartum baby blues may include mood few times per week. Whether it’s taking a swings, anxiety, crying spells and difficulty bubble bath, reading a book or watching your sleeping. Writer / Dr. Danielle Beaver, Obstetrician at IU Health West Hospital Photography Provided

APRIL 2021

favorite show, it’s important to take some time for yourself.

LOW E R YO U R E X P E C TAT I O N S A N D USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA. As a new mom, you’ll experience unconditional love from your child. Your baby won’t notice if the house isn’t spotless or the laundry isn’t done. It’s important not to feel like everything must be perfect or that you have to do it all. Online shopping and delivery services can be a great resource. Don’t be afraid to lean on friends and family for help. While social media can be a great way for you to connect with other new moms, it can also be damaging to your mental health. Motherhood, especially in the first few months, is messy, exhausting, difficult and not always pretty. Avoid the urge to compare yourself to other moms on social media.


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