Counseling
The first choice of treatment is often counseling to help you recognize symptoms and work through those feeling. A therapist may give you strategies to work on at home to help you adapt to life with a baby and manage your mood.
Parent coaching or other classes may also help strengthen the bond between you and your baby and give you more confidence in your parenting abilities.
Medicine
Your doctor may also recommend an antidepressant if you have more severe depression. Talk to your doctor about medication options and what to expect if you're breastfeeding.
Support Group
You are not alone and having postpartum depression isn't a sign of weakness. Many other moms are going through the same thing. Attending a support group to hear from others may help you recover and learn strategies for handling the hard days.
Postpartum Depression Prevention
Exercising and eating healthy will help give you strength and prepare your body to handle the hormonal changes that happen after childbirth. Taking care of yourself by asking for help can also help prevent depression.
Ask others to change diapers, cook meals or give your baby a bottle while you sleep will help keep you from getting burned out and exhausted. Avoid alcohol and caffeine at first as well.
These steps can be part of your treatment for postpartum depression as well.
Why Choose Magee
Magee-Womens Hospital has experts in behavioral health who can tailor treatment to your needs and wishes. We have a range of counseling options and classes for you and your family. Our experts are dedicated to providing care for women at this stage in their lives. Call us at 412-641-1238 to speak with a member of our staff.