Keeping Mental Health in Check for Mothers Here's How
As a woman progresses through each trimester of her pregnancy, she and her doctor will concentrate on various elements of her physical well-being. They’ll keep an eye on her blood pressure, heart rate, and weight to make sure she’s doing well. They’ll also keep a watch on any chronic diseases the kid may have, such as diabetes or heart problems, to ensure he or she grows strong and healthy.
BUT WHY IS MENTAL HEALTH SO ESSENTIAL?
Postpartum depression can manifest itself in a variety of ways, some of which appear during pregnancy and others which appear a week or even months after the baby is born. The “baby blues” (e.g., feeling nervous, unhappy, or overwhelmed, sobbing, and having mood swings) aren’t regarded as a perinatal mental health risk because they’re fairly prevalent in women and generally only last a few days to a week.
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF IT?
1. Know the Signs of a Mental Health Issue
Awareness is key to recognizing and accepting mental health issues inflicted by post-partum pregnancy. The more the mother understands about the most frequent mental health issues that new moms face, the sooner she can seek help. Most women will discuss the indicators of postpartum depression with their doctor right after birth and during follow-up sessions. Feeling exceedingly unhappy, sleeping insufficiently, or being unable to sleep are all common postpartum depression symptoms. Anger, trouble concentrating and losing interest in usual pastimes are also an indicator of depression.
2. Invest in Self-Care
Begin by doing a few things that will help you feel revitalized. Some women like taking a nightly bath after their baby is asleep or getting a weekly massage. Reading a novel, writing in a diary, or completing a yoga session are some more self-care suggestions. While the baby sleeps, mothers can experiment with what helps them feel re-energized.
3. Cut Down on Chores and Errands
The infant will need diaper changes, resting, and feeding on a regular basis, as a new mom you can minimize stress and boost mental health during the newborn stage by reducing time-consuming duties. Make sure to take additional help from a family member or an external resource so you can have more time on your hands.
4. Reduce Your Use of Social Media
Social media is a great way to indulge ,however, it can be a toxic space if you are struggling personally and constantly comparing yourself to other new-be moms on the internet. This can not only negatively impact your mental health, but also lead you to make incorrect choices. Instead, invest time in reading and educating yourself and reduce time on social media. You can also become a member of a mom’s organization. There are mom and baby clubs for every interest, as well as support and fitness meetups.
The mother must be healthy in order to provide optimum care for the kid. Hence, putting mental and physical health first becomes vital. The better the mother feels about herself and her life as a new mom, the more she responds to her fundamental needs, relaxes, and avoids negative messages. If you still find yourself struggling, acquire help from a professional psychologist to better deal with postpartum depression and other mental health issues.
