Maternal sadness, also known as postpartum depression, is a common experience after childbirth. It can affect up to 1 in 7 women. Symptoms of maternal sadness can range from mild to severe, and they can start anytime during the first year after giving birth.
Some of the early warning signs of maternal sadness include:
- Feeling exhausted, anxious, low, and teary
- Beginning to withdraw from your family and friends
- Feeling irritable and intolerant towards your partner and/or baby
- Sleeping badly, even when your baby is asleep
- Loss of interest in the world around you
- Negative thinking, particularly about you not being a good enough mum
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor. Maternal sadness is a treatable condition, and there are many resources available to help you get the support you need.
Here are some of the reasons why maternal sadness can stop mums from being happy:
- Hormonal changes. The dramatic drop in hormones after childbirth can lead to mood swings, fatigue, and anxiety.
- Sleep deprivation. Newborns need a lot of sleep, which can leave mums feeling exhausted.
- Isolation. Many mums feel isolated after childbirth, especially if they don’t have a lot of support from family and friends.
- Changes in identity. Becoming a mum is a big change, and it can take time to adjust to your new role.
- Pressure to be a perfect mum. There is a lot of pressure on mums to be perfect, which can lead to feelings of guilt and inadequacy.
If you are struggling with maternal sadness, there are things you can do to help yourself feel better. These include:
- Talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you rule out any medical conditions and recommend treatment options.
- Get support from loved ones. Talk to your partner, family, and friends about how you are feeling. They can offer support and encouragement.
- Join a support group. There are many support groups available for mums with maternal sadness. Talking to other mums who understand what you are going through can be very helpful.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. Taking care of yourself will help you feel better physically and emotionally.
If you are struggling with maternal sadness, please know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you get the support you need. Please reach out for help if you are feeling overwhelmed.