Finding Help

With postpartum depression, you may just feel numb. Fatigued, unfocused, worn-out, bluh–all are expressions of PPD. Feeling better, let alone happy, can seem impossible. Remembering what used to make you happy isn't so easy either. So we've done some remembering for you. Go ahead, give it a try:

• Contact a therapist
• Call a friend
• Connect with other moms: New Mothers Support Group, Personal Renewal Groups
• Write or draw in a journal
• Find someone you can talk to about your feelings.
• Find people who can help you with child care, housework, and errands so you can get some much needed rest.
• Make time for yourself every day, even if it's only for 15 minutes.
• Do something relaxing or that makes you feel good about yourself.
• Keep a daily diary of your emotions and thoughts. This is a good way to let everything out and to keep track of your progress as you begin to feel better.
• Give yourself credit for the things you're able to accomplish, even if you only get one thing done in a day. If you aren't able to get anything done, don't be hard on yourself.
• Give yourself permission to feel overwhelmed.
• Remember that no one expects you to be supermom.
• Be honest about how much you can do and ask others for help.
• Join a support group.