Postpartum Depression: How to Support a New Mom Who Is Struggling With PPD by Dr. Sarah Allen

Having a baby is a huge life transition and for one in seven new moms it can lead to postpartum depression (PPD). Even if your friend appears to be coping well after having a baby, please offer some support as you can’t really tell how someone is feeling unless you ask.

• Be Specific – Don’t leave an offer of help open-ended, be more specific.

• Sit With Her – It can be very isolating being at home with a baby and a depressed mom often finds it difficult to get up the effort to socialize so a low-key, one-on-one chat, can be very supportive.

• Give Her Alone Time – Once she feels comfortable leaving her baby for a while, offer to stay with the baby while she does something for herself.

• Encourage Her to Talk – Encourage your friend to talk about how she feels without judgement or advice.

• Validate the Things She Does Well – When someone is not coping they focus on all the things they feel they have done badly and tend to ignore the things they are doing well.

• Let Her Know She Is Not Alone – Just letting her know you are right there with her and will give her whatever support she needs will be a huge comfort.

Get more tips on postpartum depression.

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