Bollywood's celebrity mums have recently been opening up about postpartum depression and seeking therapy, conditions that a lot of new mothers struggle to deal with.
Ileana D’cruz- I had read about postpartum depression, and I have dealt with a mild case of depression in the past, so I assumed I was mentally prepared. But nothing really prepares you for the feeling of postpartum depression. It’s an added kind of mom guilt in a way. And it’s very alienating.
Alia Bhatt
speaking to Vogue- Alia shared that she's been going to therapy sessions to handle the challenges of being a new mom, saying it's a "constantly changing, constantly evolving process." Alia also recognized the importance of addressing the "normal amount of mom guilt" that many new mothers feel.
Sonam Kapoor
on a podcast- I gained 32 kilos. Honestly, initially, I was traumatised. You are so obsessed with your baby, you are really not thinking about working out, eating right. It took me a year and a half, I took it really slow; you have to be slow because you have to adjust to the new you.
Psychiatrist’s advice- Inputs by
Dr Anjalika Atrey, Consultant psychiatrist, therapist
As a psychiatrist, I see many mothers who develop
symptoms
of postpartum depression or blues after giving birth. It is a common condition that many women experience, which can become a more serious issue if left untreated. To help these new mothers deal with the condition, here are some tips and tricks to treat postpartum depression and prevent it from becoming a full-blown depressive disorder.
First and foremost, it is essential for new mothers to be aware of the symptoms of postpartum depression. These symptoms include persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in things that used to bring joy, and feelings of hopelessness. Other signs include irritability, insomnia or over-sleeping, and trouble concentrating. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please reach out to a psychiatrist.
One important tip that can help treat postpartum depression is to engage in regular physical activity. Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. You do not have to be a fitness fanatic, but even a 30-minute walk can do wonders for your mental health. Other activities that can help include yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises.
It is also important to maintain a good sleep routine. Lack of sleep can exacerbate symptoms of depression, so it is important to prioritize sleep and aim for at least seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night.
A supportive environment is also key to helping new mothers with postpartum depression. It is important to have a strong support system, which can include friends, family, and other new mothers who are going through the same experience. You may also want to consider joining a new mother support group or attending a session with your psychiatrist who specializes in postpartum depression.
Finally, it is crucial to understand the role of a psychiatrist in understanding and managing this condition of women which is very common these days especially in working women due to high pressures. A psychiatrist can help diagnose the condition and develop a treatment plan that is individualized to your specific needs. This may include medication, different kinds of therapies or a combination of the two. It is important to stick to the treatment plan and be open and honest with the psychiatrist about any changes in symptoms or side effects.
In conclusion, motherhood can be a challenging and rewarding experience, and it can be especially difficult for new mothers who are dealing with symptoms of postpartum depression or blues. However, there are several tips and tricks that can help treat the condition, and it is essential to seek.
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