Recently, I became a mother once again. Once again, this baby had severe reflux. Once again, our life was turned upside down. Yes, a new baby will do that. A sick new baby that cries and writhes in pain for hours and hours on end will do that big time.I am grateful, very grateful for another healthy baby. It’s just hard, really, really hard to recover from a c-section, help a baby in pain & still be a mother to another child. After all, the world keeps spinning; homework needs to be done and the home still needs upkeep.
Hormonally, I was also emotional. I was feeling sad at what was & sad at what is now. Yet, I was grateful. And I was keenly aware that it would all get better. In fact, it would be better than before. So, why did I still get moments of sadness? Suddenly, it dawned on me that once again, I had the Baby Blues. I had it after the birth of my son. It lasted about 3 weeks before I improved. And I finally returned to “me” at 6 weeks postpartum. It may not seem like a long time. However, when your mind is stuck in a trap, it feels never-ending. Support of family and friends has been critical to my sanity. Without it, I’d suffer so much more. So, here’s a big thank you to all who have helped in many little and big ways.
This is just a reminder to all new moms and dads to be aware of the Baby Blues, Postpartum Depression & even the not-so-common Postpartum Psychosis. The Baby Blues typically last about 1-2 weeks and start within the first few days after delivery. Postpartum Depression typically lasts longer than 3 weeks. Also, Postpartum Depression may not start immediately after birth; it and can start anywhere from 6-12 months after delivery.
Be watchful of the signs of Postpartum Depression. If you or the new mom is showing any signs of depression, loss of appetite, or difficulty sleeping even when baby us asleep, consider discussing it with her OB/GYN or her regular doctor. There is help available. Also get help from those around you. Meals, kind words & reassurance can make a big difference.
For more information about Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression, including signs and symptoms and available treatment options, please go to http://bit.ly/Qc9wj5.
Great post Nancy M Silva, hopeful can help someone. 🙂
You were there for me:)
Support from a professional is so important. Also, so important, is that we, as women, are supportive of each other…on a personal heart to heart level. I was happy to be there for you. Helps to know that it’s not insane to have a really hard time caring for a new baby. It’s not all “perfect” as it’s portrayed on TV. Reality is that it’s one of the hardest and most important things we do. And when someone simply states that it’s okay to feel all the feelings we feel after birth, then, we feel more sane & less alone.