Mental wellbeing for new mothers is essential

While learning how to deal with all the changes and adjustments, to name a few, some combinations of hormonal upheaval, increased responsibility, physical discomfort, loss of freedom and sleep deprivation, the period also involves parents learning how to care for their newborn and how to function as a changed family unit.

According to WHO, worldwide about 10 percent of pregnant women and 13 percent of women who have just given birth experience a mental disorder, primarily depression. In developing countries this is even higher, i.e. 15.6 percent during pregnancy and 19.8 percent after childbirth.

“If one gets a high fever and cough, one would probably see your doctor without thinking. One would follow the doctor’s instructions without question. Yet when a new mom struggles with her mental health, she often feels ashamed and suffers in silence; many women feel overwhelmed, sad, or anxious at different times during their pregnancy and even after the baby is born. The most common are “Baby blues” which are mood swings—from feeling very happy to be feeling very sad,” says Sneha George, Counselling Psychologist, Fortis Malar Hospital

Mental health experts say that a woman may cry for no reason, or feel impatient, irritable, restless, anxious or lonely. These feelings may last only a few hours or for a week or two after delivery. For many women, these feelings go away on their own. But for some women, these emotions are more serious and may stay for some time. “Depression and anxiety that happens during pregnancy or anytime during the first year after the birth of your baby are medical conditions that need professional treatment. Motherhood will test a woman in ways nothing else can.”

The emotional and mental stress of being a mother can be overwhelming, but doctors offer these tips can help young mothers maintain mental health.

A parent continuously feels the need to give. Children are very reliant on them for everything: survival, learning, fun, etc. It is important to remember is that one can’t give if you have nothing to give anymore. You can’t give your child more attention if you’re low on energy or stressed out. It is a parent’s job to care for their children, so they should keep themselves in optimal condition to do so.

Preventing “burning out” as a new mother is by asking for help. Having a strong support system of family and friends who are willing to help care for your child so that you can take care of yourself. Whoever you decide to have as helpers, make clear of all the things you expect them to do. Communication is important to hurt feelings or misunderstandings when emotions are fragile during the first few weeks.

Identify someone you can talk openly with and commit to sharing your feelings with that person. No matter how frustrated you are or how silly you think your feelings maybe, having someone to confide in and validate your experiences is important. Always keep communicating.

Whether it is listening to music, reading a book, or watching a favorite movie, Allot sometime each day to do something you enjoy.

You don’t have to do everything. You don’t have to have the “perfect” home. Just do what you can and leave the rest.

Don’t compare yourself to the images you see on social media. Much of what you see is highly filtered, aren’t realistic and often achieved with some additional help. Do the best you can and give yourself time to adjust to your new baby and all the related major lifestyle changes.

Whether you are a first-time mother or have had a few children already, life with a newborn can be quite an adjustment. Remember that perinatal mental health is just as important as physical health.

Ask for help, practice self-care, try therapy, and find a support system to help you maintain a more positive mental health during this challenging time. If you are concerned about your mental health as a newmom, seek professional help as soon as possible.