Let’s have an honest chat about depression…specifically postpartum depression. I’m 15 yrs past my last baby so I’m sure you’re probably rolling your eyes and thinking ‘what do you know’ or ‘why are you even bringing this up now?’, right?
I think the holidays is a great time to talk about depression and how it affects us mainly because it’s a season where we are ‘supposed’ to be happy. Unfortunately, life doesn’t always get that message.
When I was a young mom, postpartum wasn’t something discussed or acknowledged or even accepted – especially in my circle as a pastor’s wife. I remember with my oldest (who will be 20 in a few months…) that feeling of…emptiness and sadness and wishing I could run away from it all. I was too young to be a mom, and far from family and I used any excuse I could rather than face the truth…that I was dealing with something more than the ‘baby blues’.
Looking back, I dealt with postpartum depression with each of my babies. I should have sought help. I wish I had sought help. This holiday season, if you are a new mom (or a new dad, or just need someone to talk to…) please find help. You aren’t alone. I promise, YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
Below is a post about Talkspace, an amazing organization that is there for anyone who needs someone to talk to.
Talkspace Therapists Discuss How To Deal With Postpartum Depression
Mental health professionals have been doing their best to erase the stigma associated with postpartum depression. However, many new mothers are ashamed to have this condition. There are several things that can contribute to postpartum depression. Mothers have to get up several times at night to care for their baby. This can lead to sleep deprivation.
New mothers are also adjusting to hormonal changes. According to the Center for Disease Control, 20 percent of women suffer from postpartum depression. It is important to note that the actual number may be a lot higher than this. The CDC estimate is based on the percentage of women who actually get help.
Why many Mothers do not get Help
One of the reasons that women do not get help is because postpartum depression is often mistaken for baby blues. It is estimated that 80 percent of women will develop baby blues. Many mothers will express that they are unhappy, and they will be brushed off. They will be told that the problem will go away on its own.
Postpartum depression can look a lot like baby blues. That is why you should not assume that the problem will go away without help. Many women are also ashamed to admit that they have this problem. Women are constantly told that being a mother will be the best part of their life.
When the baby comes and a woman does not feel happy, she may feel ashamed. That is why many women suffer in silence. Depression can make it hard for women to be good mothers.
Social Media and Postpartum Depression
Several studies have shown that social media is contributing to mental health problems. Researchers have found that people who use social media a lot are more likely to be depressed. Studies have also shown that comparison and envy increases when people use social media.
This can be even more problematic for new mothers. Scrolling social media may seem like it is a harmless way to spend your time. However, this can cause you to compare your life to other mothers. You may find it helpful to take a break from social media.
Getting Help
You do not have to suffer in silence if you have postpartum depression. There are many things that you can do to treat this problem. Simply getting dressed and leaving the house for a little while can help you feel better.
You should also accept help that is offered to you. Many women feel like bad mothers if they ask for help. However, you will not be able to do everything on your own.
Additionally, you should talk with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend that you go to therapy and take medication.
About Talkspace
Talkspace is an online counseling service that was created by Oren and Roni Frank. They were inspired to create this company after counseling helped save their marriage. People are able to use an online therapy app to get counseling right from their phone, tablet or computer.
The online therapy app is available for everyone who is over the age of 18. Talkspace has been given several positive reviews by users. Convenience and affordability are the main reasons that people love this company.
