According to the Mayo Clinic, post partum depression can be a complication of giving birth.
This is different from a heightened level of mood swings, anxiety and crying jags-all of which are perfectly normal after a major change like having a baby.
Post partum depression is a more severe case of the above.
And it usually lasts longer.
Up to a year in some cases.
You might find you don't have much appetite, you're feeling a lot of anger and irritability, and you're even having trouble bonding with your new baby.
Take a deep breath.
There are many reasons some women may experience these depression symptoms after birth and there's no need to blame yourself.
You might be experiencing these symptoms because body experiences a tremendous drop in your hormone levels after birth.
Other hormones produced by your thyroid gland can leave you sluggish and depressed.
Then there's the sleep deprivation common with any newborn.
Not getting enough rest will make anyone cranky and feel overwhelmed.
Plus, you might feel less attractive or you're struggling with your new identity as a mom.
Any of these can contribute to feelings of irritability, anger and depression.
And finally there's your lifestyle.
If you feel you aren't getting enough support from family members or you're having trouble breast feeding these can lead to feelings of inadequacy and depression.
If you feel you're experiencing any of these symptoms for more than a couple of weeks, or they're very intense, you may want to seek help from a licensed therapist.
A good therapist can help you get a better perspective on yourself and the major change you've just gone through with bringing a new life into the world.
Getting exercise and eating nutritious foods will help.
By providing your body the nutrients it needs to heal itself you can relieve some of these post partum depression symptoms.
Be sure to include plenty of omega 3 fatty acids in your diet.
You can get these through spinach, walnuts, olive oil and fish.
Fish especially is rich in DHA and EPA-two things you need plenty of right now.
Your child needs the DHA to develop motor skills and language ability and you need the EPA to boost your mood.
Many psychologists are recommending fish oil supplements with omega 3 to ensure their clients get the nutrients they need.
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