Right after bringing your newborn into the world, it's common to experience finding yourself crying for no reason, getting irritated at loved ones, or feeling emotionally drained instead of getting overwhelmed with joy. If your answer is yes, it might be baby blues. Indeed, baby blues affect up to 80 percent of new moms.
So why does this happen? The sudden drop in hormones after birth, along with exhaustion and the immense responsibility of caring for a newborn, needs to be blamed. However, the good thing is—these feelings usually subside within two weeks.Â
However, even in that short time, it can leave you emotionally drained due to intense mood swings, irritability, and frustration. Read below this article to explore five effective ways to help you deal with those baby blues.
Lots of Sleep and Rest
Sleep deprivation is one of the biggest reasons behind postpartum mood swings. Indeed, the frustration of waking up every two hours for baby feedings really takes a toll both on your body and your mental health.
Of course, getting a solid eight hours of sleep might seem overwhelming; even small changes can do good for you. Just taking short naps throughout the day can actually help reset your energy levels. If possible, you may also share nighttime duties with your partner and share the responsibilities together.
Stay Nourished and Hydrated
Unfortunately, the reality is most mothers often forget about their own needs since their entire schedule is all around a newborn. But did you know that what you eat and drink also has a big impact on your mood and energy levels? Therefore, it's important to address common concerns, including nutrient deficiencies and dehydration, since they are two of the major contributors to increased irritability and exhaustion.
The key is to ensure a balanced approach by incorporating protein-rich snacks such as yogurt, nuts, and whole grains to keep your blood sugar stable. Besides, adding omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods such as salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can also help in reducing symptoms of depression. Lastly, dehydration can also lead to fatigue, headaches, and mood swings; therefore, drinking plenty of water throughout the day is recommended.
Open Up About Your Feelings
New moms often feel pressure to appear strong and composed. However, bottling up your emotions will only make your baby blues heavier.
Therefore, it's important to open up about your feelings and talk to someone who really understands—it could be a friend, family member, or a fellow mom. In fact, sometimes, just hearing that someone else has gone through the same thing can make you feel less alone. If these signs of baby blues persist beyond two weeks, make sure to reach out to your doctor.
Take Time for Yourself
One of the best ways to deal with baby blues is to find a few minutes a day for yourself. This simple yet effective approach can significantly improve your mood. Or maybe try stepping outside for fresh air, taking a warm shower, or listening to your favorite music. This will give you the mental reset you truly deserve.
After all, self-care is not selfish.Â
Ask for and Seek Help
Last but not least, one of the biggest challenges most new moms face is the feeling that they have to do everything alone. Unfortunately, modern life often expects moms to manage everything themselves. The result? Exhaustion and burnout!
The key is to learn that there is no shame in letting others lighten your load. Yes, you read it right. Asking for help does not mean you are failing as a mother. Whether it’s a friend or a family member, it’s okay to accept support in sharing the duties sometimes.
Final Thoughts
The truth is—while baby blues are overwhelming, they don’t actually last forever. By getting on rest, nutrition, hydration, emotional support, and self-care, it's easy to deal with this phase. However, if your symptoms last beyond two weeks or feel unmanageable, it's best to seek your doctor.
Be the first one to comment on this story.