Seeking Advise - Whittier,CA

Perhaps you can go to my friend's website: www.mommyof many.com. SHe did a podcast with a doctor on this very important subject.
Take care.

Dear J.,
Greetings!!!

I truly understand how you are feeling as a MAMA myself. Have you ever thought about researching natural or homeopathic remedies for how you are feeling? There are definitely many natural solutions that can actually help with what you are going through.

I highly recommend contacting Dr. Anita Pepi who is truly an amazing Chiropractor and Nutritionist and would definitely be able to help you naturally.

Here's her data:

2950 Los Feliz Blvd. Suite 101
Los Angeles, CA 90039
(323) 666~1088
http://www.drpepi.com

If she is too far for you, please let me know as I may know of an incredible nutritionist that is closer to you.

I also recommend checking out 4 organizations validating why going the natural route is best for you and your family:

http://www.uniteforlife.org/
http://www.cchr.org/
http://www.cchr.org/mothers_act.html
http://www.labelmesane.com/

You'll also find some amazing data regarding alternatives at: http://www.cchr.org/solutions_and_alternatives/

And, J., please watch:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=LQW23XCmOCw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qble_vQEC7M
http://www.psychconflicts.org/

Please free to reach me anytime at ____@____.com. I'd love to help you however I can.

LOL,
L. (Mama to 39 week old Dylan Orion).

You already got some great responses about what post-partum depression is and what to do about it. I had terrible post-partum depression after the birth of both of my babies. I felt so alone because I never met or talked to even one mom who had it. Even my care providers were not quick to take action - I had to be persistent. Everyone says it is common, but I felt like a mutant. I just want to invite you to contact me if you want to talk to someone who knows what it feels like. Your brief description sounds like what most women experience and may only be the baby blues, but I am here for you if you would like an understanding ear. I have a great family and wonderful friends, but even with a great support system, I felt totally alone. Just know, whether this is simply the blues, or PPD, you will get through this!

J.,
When I had my second son I caught myself in a funk that I just couldn't get out of. I was so depressed and didn't want to be with anyone. Bed was the only thing that sounded half way decent to me. I was so thankful that I brought it up when I say my OB for my postpartum visit. Otherwise I'd still be in that funk. She suggested we get some blood work done. We did and it turned out that my Thyroid was out of wack. I saw an endochrinologist. She gave me a pill to take every day and - I'm not kidding you... in just 2 days I was feeling so much better. I was back to the old me. It' felt amazing! So when I hear that people are feeling out of sorts after having a baby I always tell them to check their Thyroid and never hold anything from their doctor. Even if your depression is not caused by your thyroid, your doctor should be able to help.
Good luck to you. A new baby is a big change, but there is always help and I'm sure your a fabulous mom. Stay strong.
M.

Hello J., I do agree it's normal to feel happy and sad at times..I would be concerned if you find yourself excluding yourself from the typical things you used to do for yourself before having a baby. I experienced post partum and the experience I had was I was very numb to everything...I didn't have the extreme, but I didn't really care about the way I looked, or having my favorite food or ice cream, not even shopping for shoes, I didn't go out with my friends or coworkers etc. I became less involved with anything and anybody. It was bad to the extent when I went back to work, I didn't even try to wear my "normal" clothes. I started to safety pin my maternity pants until one day and I caught a coworker looking at me like "OMG, what is she wearing?" So I looked in the mirror and I bascially let myself go, but realized I didn't care. So when I realized that was not normal for me, I had to make a conscious effort to groom myself better for work and start taking care of myself i.e. get a pedicare, haircut/color, start going out with friends even though I never felt like going out and I finally asked for some honest feedback from one of my close friends. She eventually helped supported me and I made a pact with her to pack all my maternity clothes, and she helped to get me out of the house - girls night whether it was dinner or the movies etc. I've read it's good to keep what you've been doing before so it helps you through after having a baby, including exercise. I was never on any medication and I never discussed it with a doctor until much later when I was already coming out of it. Also I think the fact that you are more aware of it now, will help you too...it was 8 months after I had my daugther that I realized what was going on so I think you're ahead of the game. Now that I'm expecting again, I am making the effort to continue going out even if I don't feel like it, including date night with my husband and trying to exercise more. I hope that helps! But I wouldn't hesitate also to talk to a doctor if you feel more comfortable and this support network too..it's great! Sincerely, D.

well, it depends on how long ago you delivered to some degree. How many weeks has it gone on? If you feel overwhelmed emotionally and sad at times and your baby is only 2 months or younger, it's probably just the baby blues, which are more related to the shift in hormones and will pass. That's very normal. The symptoms of depression are changes in diet/weight, changes in sleep patterns (though you'll experience this with a baby anyway), lack of pleasure in things that used to bring you pleasure, feelings of shame, guilt or worthlessness, suicidal thoughts, etc.

I would talk to your doctor if you are at all concerned.

I've been going through a little of this myself. I had my baby four weeks ago. How long ago did you have your baby? From what I've read, the "baby blues" start a few days postpartum and last about a week. If you are still feeling down (weepy, depressed)a few weeks later then you might want to consult with your OB, especially if you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. I'm being monitored by my OB and she's given me some coping resources. Don't be afraid to talk to your dr., many women go through this.

I know you have gotten a lot of advice, but just wanted to let you know, it sounds pretty normal I was in a funk with my first crying, sad but also so happy. And now that I just had my second, it is better but I too have days where I am just sad and down but I also have great days. I think it is completely normal. It is very overwhelming and rewarding. If you think things are getting worse see or call your OB, they can help you.
Good Luck and Congrats

Hello J., Postpartum Depression is a very serious thing, and if you think you may have it, you should talk to your Dr. Know that you are not alone. 25% of women go through postpartum depression, which is different from the baby blues. The worst form is postpartum psychosis which is what those moms have when you hear that they have killed their kids and themselves. It doesn't sound like you have this,but you really want to talk to your Dr. about what you are feeling. Also talk to your partner and see what changes they have noticed.
Ask yourself these questions:
1. Has anyone told you that you worry about your baby too much?
2. Have your moods changed rapidly?
3. Have you cried for no reason?
4. Have you felt overly anxious?
5. Do you feel jittery, and agistated, or slow and lethargic?
6. Are you afraid to be alone with your baby?
7. Do ou feel guilty much of the time?
8. Do you have difficulty concentrating?
9. Has your energy level decreased drastically?
10.Has your appetite increases or decreased dramatically?
11. Have your checked on your baby so much that you interfered with his sleep?
-------------------------------------------------
12. Have you lost interest in your baby?
13. Have you felt depressed or sad for two weeks or more?
14. Have you had a panic attack?
15. Have you had thoughts of suicide?
16. Have you thought about harming your baby?
17. Have you seen things you know are not there?
18. Have you heard voices when no one elde is there?

If you answered yes to more than 3 of items 1-11, or any one of the last seven (12-18) please contact your care provider immediately.

I am a birth doula and I talk to many couples about postpartum depression. It is nothing to feel guily about, but it is something to get help about. Hope this helps you and anyone out there who may be feeling the same but has not posted about it.
Good luck, and God Bless.

Dear J.,

Ask those around you if they are seeing a difference. Choose people who know you well and you KNOW will tell you the truth. I fought with post-partum depression for seven long months before I FINALLY realized I needed to go on medication. BY that time I didn't even want to play with my sweet little guy. One of the things that confused me about how I was feeling is that I was feeling anxious far more than depressed. Guess what? That can be part of PPD!

Talk to your doctor if you are more than 6 weeks post partum. Also keep in mind that your hormones may still be fluctuating. I am NOT saying that you need to go on medication. Maybe a few trips to a psychologist could sort it out but, please, make sure you're taking care of yourself. You can't give your little one all they want and need if you're suffering.

Take care and best of health.

M.

Hi J.,

It's wise of you to want to care for yourself like this. Find a therapist to help you work through things. If necessary, there is probably a low cost counseling center near you and, if you have 211 available, you can call them to find one. Also, think about joining a group such as Parents without Partners to give you additional support.

V.

Hi J.,

I think it's normal to have emotional ups and downs with a new baby. With PPD things feel completely hopeless, you can't think straight, focus, feel like you've lost it. Don't hesitate to call your doctor. Depression can sneak up quickly. I have always admired single mothers. You have a tough road ahead of you but never give up! Hopefully, you have a family member or a close friend that can care for your baby while you take a break if your a stay at home mommy. Getting that time away from that little angel is crucial. Stay strong!!!

Sincerely,
K.

Hi J.,

Are other people comenting on your mood? I have been a single mom before and it is not easy! Neither is being in a bad relationship though! I think ups and downs are part of life, its how long it lasts and how you act in the middle of it! Google the actual symptoms and stay connected to people who ARE healthy and you will reach your goal!
All The Best!
S.

postpartum is a severe depression that needs medical intervention. Some people get it confused with normal baby blues. The difference is the baby blues usually go away after about a month or two. If you are having visions of hurting your baby,or wanting to give them up, and this is going on for a while, then you might have postpatum. I would talk to your doctor to be on the safe side. But I know after having my daughter Rylin, I was depressed because I had alot of change going on. That will do it to you. I left my bf after having the baby,I was unhappy about my body after baby(totally normal), then the adjustment of a new baby that will rely on you to survive is kinda scary!
So it is normal to be a bit depressed and worrisome right after having a baby. But if you're not sure, talk to a doctor for sure. Good luck!

Hi J., it sounds to me like you have a very mild case of postpartum depression, it is so normal especially with your first baby, it will pass, and believe it or not you will be OK and you are not a crazy mom, you are a women going through a whole new experience. J.

J.,
Talk to your OB right away! They know what all the signs are and how to help.
Best Wishes
C.

Post partum depression does not HAVE TO BE SEVERE! You can have varying levels of it. It's normal to be somewhat up and down after a new baby b/c you are sleep deprived. Talk to you friend, husband or anyone else in your life about what your've feeling. I talked to my dr. about it and he monitored me. I am still suffering with mild depression at 2 years post partum.

Talk to someone!! There is help if you need it.

You can call this local # for answers to your questions and support.

Postpartum Health Alliance staffs a “warmline” for mothers to call for information and support ###-###-####)

Reaching out is half the battle. Good luck to you.

Depression is sneaky. Your not crazy! Your very smart to ask.
Is your happy a full burst of joy and then you low is "I need sleep and You don't want to talk or do any thing. Or your angry and you don't know why but you are taking it out on everyone. Eating too much or too little. Ask a friend if you seem irritable for no reason. That is some of the small stuff.
Check online and with your doctor. Your taking action and that is the battle won.