Perinatal depression, also referred to as maternal depression, occurs during pregnancy or within a few weeks after delivery.
A number of women face perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. It is estimated that 1 in 6 women suffer from this disorder. This illness is influenced by many factors. Some of them are listed below:
- Physical and mental stress from pregnancy, childbirth, and caring for a new baby
- Difficult or traumatic childbirth experiences
- Lack of postpartum support
- Lack of family or financial support
- Limited access to healthcare facilities/ treatment
- Recent exposure to psychological stressors
- Previous mental illness
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetic predisposition
- Lacking nutrients or a healthy diet plan
Perinatal depression symptoms include:
- Mood swings
- Trouble bonding with your baby
- Difficulty thinking or making decisions etc
The most effective way to diagnose and treat perinatal depression is by visiting your doctor. They can evaluate your symptoms and advice the best treatment plan for you.
However, you may also follow the below tips at home. It will help you cope with everyday stresses in a better way.
• Exercise
Focus on your body and start an exercise program. Just pick your favourite workout wear and start your regimen. Whether you just go for a daily walk or join a prenatal/postnatal yoga class, your body will surely benefit plenty. Moreover, you will get an amazing feeling after you do your exercise. It will help you to stay in a good mood throughout the day.
• Read for Fun
Pick up a novel or a magazine that’s just plain fun. You can also go online and read some new articles to alter your mood. The point is to truly relax and escape from the stresses for a while.
• Go for a Spa
Take a little time, and treat yourself to a spa to ease those pains and aches. These days
many spas are offering packages for new moms and pregnant women. Whether it’s a massage or a facial, you are bound to emerge feeling rejuvenated.
Note: Remember to check if your spa-consultant is trained in pregnancy/ post-pregnancy spa treatments. The regular spa might not be able to help you much.
• Communicate/ Socialize
This is the best phase of your life, so try to share this time with your spouse, family
members, and friends. Discuss your experiences and feelings with others or with other experienced moms. They will surely understand your feelings and will try to keep you happy in whatever way they can.
• Dress Appropriately and Go On a Date With Your Partner
Dress up and go for a romantic date with your husband. It will help you de-stress and make you happier.
Below are some tips to help hide those bulges:
➢ During this phase try an empire-waisted maxi dress – an ankle-length flowing dress
that you can wear even after the baby has arrived. It’s easy to wear – just throw
it on and you are good to go!
➢ You can also find a big coat that you can wear on your dresses and tops. Just close up 1 or 2 buttons and you are ready to go. Moreover, it keeps you protected and comfortable, wherever you go.
• Follow a Healthy Diet Plan
Make sure you follow a healthy diet plan. As per health experts, food can control/reduce stress in several ways. It will not only boost the body’s energy levels but will also help you stay active and charged throughout the day.
• Consult a Dietician
It’s suggested that the kind of food you take can impact the body’s neural circuits – one that controls emotion, motivation, and mood. So if you are feeling low and want to know which foods act as a stress buster, consult a dietician like Kanupriya Khanna. A female fertility nutritionist in Delhi– Kanupriya will not only help you with a good diet plan but will also help you stay calm and healthy during such critical times.