Dealing with Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression, something that all moms think can not happen to them, but in reality, for about 80% of new moms it will happen to them. They will suffer from postpartum blues, the sadness and anxiety experienced in the first two weeks following delivery. These emotions are often triggered by hormonal shifts or lack of sleep.

I experienced this with my 2nd child, I thought to myself when I was going through it, there is no way this could be happening as it didn't happen on my first child, but like every delivery even the after is completely different with every child. Here are a few things I learned about dealing with Postpartum Depression while also dealing with a toddler.

Rest when both kids are resting

You might be thinking, "Lacey, have you lost your mind, when is there any time to rest?" You find the time, when you put your toddler down for a nap and your newborn is sleeping, this doesn't mean you do the dishes that are piling up, or do the laundry that is piling up, you rest. The laundry, dishes, chores, all of those are still going to be there when you get up. Take advantage of the quietness and sleep when they are both sleeping.

Don't be afraid to ask for help.

This is something that I struggled with, not just with my first child, but also with my 2nd. I thought I could do it all coming straight out of having a C-section. That was not the case, exhaustion set in, both kids were asleep and I had my mom helping, she kept telling me to stop and sit down, but i decided to be stubborn and not listen, I was standing at the sink doing the dishes and the tears just started flowing because exhaustion got the best of me. So, don't be afraid to ask for help if you have help available, take the time and sit down with your newborn.

These are just a few of things that I wanted everybody to know about, its ok, if you have to ask for help there is no shame in this, being a mom is hard, and if the help is available then take it. You have to be able to take care of yourself before you can take care of those tiny humans.

Please feel free to comment on this post about your experiences or if you have tips for dealing with Postpartum Depression