Mental Health
Management
Postpartum Emotions
Postpartum EmotionsAfter giving birth, your body goes through a lot of changes, including in your hormone levels. As yourhormones adjust, you may feel a wide range of emotions, both ups and downs.During this time, be patient and kind to yourself. You are likely dealing with a lot of stressful things, such as: Alack of sleep; The challenge of getting to know your newborn; Loneliness or isolation from other adults; And theconstant full-time demands of an infant.As you care for your baby, remember to take care of yourself, too. Self-care can help you manage big moodswings. Rest when you can. Choose to eat healthy foods like lots of fruits and vegetables. And find time forsome physical activity. Try walking with your family. It can help you bond and make you feel stronger bothphysically and emotionally. Plus, just getting outside can help you feel better.Getting support can also help you manage this stressful time. Your partner, relatives, and friends can makeyour life easier. If you are feeling overwhelmed, ask for help with: Preparing meals; Doing laundry; Helping withchores around the house; Making trips to the store; Or taking care of other children in the home.And if you’re alone with your baby a lot, ask a friend or relative to come visit and help for a while.Having a baby may also make it seem like you and your partner never have time to be alone togetheranymore.Friends and relatives can help you find time away from your baby to renew your relationship as a couple again.As soon as you feel up to going out, try to make plans to see a movie or spend some time together.Keep in mind, many new moms get the “baby blues.” These are intense feelings of sadness and anxiety. Theyusually go away with time and sleep. But if these emotions last for more than a few weeks, tell your healthcareprovider right away. They can help you manage postpartum depression and anxiety.Becoming a mother is an emotional time. Taking care of yourself and asking for support can help you throughit. Reducing emotional demands will also help you bond with your family.Page 1 ofThis program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.© The Wellness Network
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