February 27, 2009

Health Tip: Dealing With Depression After Pregnancy

(HealthDay News) -- As many as 13 percent of new mothers are depressed after giving birth.

The National Women's Health Information Center offers these suggestions to help ease postpartum depression:

• Don't worry about making sure you're doing everything perfectly. Do what you can, the best you can.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help from your spouse or partner, friends or family.
• Sleep as much as you can. Take advantage of your baby's nap time to catch up.
• Plan dates with your partner or outings with your friends to have some time to yourself.
• Talk about what you're feeling with friends and family, as well as other new moms going through the same thing.
• Join a support group for new mothers.
• Keep life as simple as possible after the baby is born. Now is not the time to make major decisions or life changes, unless you must.

-- Diana Kohnle

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