Beating the Baby Blues

Beating the Baby Blues

After 9 months of carrying your baby in your womb and nourishing yourself, now what? You’re probably always preoccupied and stressed while caring for your newborn. Sometimes you can’t even call on your friends because you don’t like feeling inadequate. 

    After all, who can blame you? Your life has changed, and your freedom is limited. You’re struggling with lack of sleep and in dire need of a manicure, a haircut or even a bath! Most times, you even cry for no reason at all!

    But don’t worry because about 70-80% of moms experience all this too. For others though, they experience what is called the “baby blues”. It normally lasts two weeks postpartum and are milder than postpartum depression. Thankfully, this is a normal period of adjustment specially for new moms and does not need any medical assistance. Below is a list of its symptoms:

• Crying for no reason
• Impatience
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Sadness
• Mood changes
• Poor concentration

Why do we get the baby blues?

What causes the baby blues exactly is still largely unknown. There are theories though that it may be related to hormonal changes after birth that causes chemical changes in the brain which then results in depression. 

Another theory is the adjustments a woman must make as she becomes a mom may be another factor. There’s sleep disturbance, changes in her daily routine, the overwhelming emotions that comes from the process of childbirth all pile up. 

How will I get well?

     Self-care is always the best way to lessen the baby blues. Try talking with your best friend about all these pent-up feelings, eat a healthy diet, go outside for some fresh air from time to time, ask for help from your partner or your family.

    Another good thing to remember is that you are not alone and you are not to blame. Too often we tend to put the blame on ourselves and that is what’s going to make it more difficult to overcome.

    Lastly, do not expect total perfection of yourself as a mother. This is a time of great change, and it is acceptable to have lapses in housework or for your body to not bounce back right away. Be realistic in your goals and you’ll eventually feel better about yourself. Get all the time and support you need, and you will get rid of those baby blues faster than your baby can say “Mama!”