Postpartum Depression

Let’s talk about a SUPER important topic: PPD (postpartum depression). 🤍

If you had PPD, can you share what it was like? What were some things you did to help? Let’s encourage each other and spread awareness to help our fellow mamas.

Here are some evidence based tips and strategies from my personal experience:

+ Getting sunlight exposure (specifically at the beginning of your day as soon as you wake up) helps to promote a normal circadian rhythm and facilitate improved sleep patterns. This is vital for you and your baby!

+ Exercising daily for at least 20 minutes increases your body’s natural ability to produce feel good hormones like dopamine and serotonin, and energy hormones like adrenaline.

+ Eating whole, nutrient dense foods as much as possible.

+ Spending alone time every day- even if it’s only for 5-10 minutes while you shower. Ideally, doing something that fills your cup like reading a book, going for a walk, or baking cookies.

How can we support other moms (with or without PPD):

> Have food delivered to their door, or make their favorite healthy snacks or a meal and bring it to them without expecting an invitation inside. This is common in those first few weeks after baby arrives, but incredibly important after that time too!

> Go pick up her laundry and do it for her at your house. Return it folded and clean; if you’re close enough and feel comfortable, put the clothes away for her too.

> Run her errands for her- pick up the groceries, pick up medications, drop off the older kids, etc.

> Go sit with her. Don’t have any expectations, just sit and be there to grab her water, feed the dogs, hold the baby while she goes to the bathroom or showers, do her dishes, sweep the porch.

> PRAY! Pray with and for your friends consistently and see God do big things!

Some sobering statistics:

- PPD occurs in 1 of every 7-10 women at any point after delivery.

- It can last between 3-6 months.

- Over 50% of women with PPD are undiagnosed.

- 80% of women who do have a diagnosis achieve full recovery.

If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. You are NOT alone and there is hope! 🤍