How to Manage Postpartum Depression

It is alright if you don’t bond with your baby instantly — reality is not a movie scene. After labour and delivery, your body and emotions are drained. Around one in three mothers struggle to bond immediately, and that is completely normal.

What is postpartum depression?

Roughly one in seven women may experience postpartum depression in the first year — sadness, anxiety, mood swings, fear and exhaustion that can last up to six months. Accept it without guilt.

Signs to watch for

• Excessive crying without a clear reason
• Loneliness, mood swings and irritability
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Anger or frustration
• Not bonding with the baby immediately

Management and care

Trust your instincts and ask family for help. Communicate your feelings to your partner and family, do bonding activities with your baby, and take care of yourself — eat well, sleep well, and practise breathing or meditation. As the saying goes, if 23 hours are for the baby, one hour is just for you.