By: Victoria H

The new year has begun and everyone is setting goals for personal wellness. New Year’s Resolutions are a wonderful tradition that can benefit anyone, especially new mothers.  Setting personal goals is important because it helps us to not get lost in the chaos of adjusting to the new role of motherhood.  Oftentimes, we focus so much on our family, jobs, and friends, that we forget to focus on ourselves. Motherhood can be hectic!  With the risk of postpartum depression, it is important to prioritize our wellbeing 

There are so many ways that we can improve ourselves and make healthier changes in our daily routine. With the multitude of options for gym memberships, meal prep services, and gratitude journals, we have plenty of opportunities to invest in ourselves.  A free and easy option that has been scientifically proven to be beneficial for your health is to get fresh air every day.  This simple goal can help prevent post-partum depression while improving mental and physical health.  

According to Mental Health America, fresh air is essential to our health and wellbeing.    Researchers reported that stepping out into nature allowed “improved focus, lower stress, better mood, and reduced risk of developing a mental health condition.”  Whether you are taking advantage of the sunlight on a brisk walk or basking in the moonlight from an open window, taking the time to breathe deeply and ground yourself will make a huge improvement in your overall health.  

The hustle and bustle of the day or the mundaneness of staying home can lead to a disassociated mindset, increasing the likelihood of depression.  For the majority of new mothers, depression can manifest at any time during the postpartum period.  According to the NIH, postpartum depression can last as long as 3 years for some mothers.   It is also recommended that healthcare providers screen for postpartum depression for up to 6 months after giving birth. Even if you are not experiencing symptoms, it is important to keep your mental health in the forefront of your mind! You deserve to be at your best and a small change like taking some deep breaths of fresh air can make a big difference.

The Mayo Clinic describes the differences in symptoms of baby blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis very well.  Apart from the typical mood swings, and tears that happen within the few weeks after giving birth called “baby blues,” the symptoms of depression are more intense and last for much longer.  The Mayo Clinic also states that feeling lost, hopeless, or intrusive thoughts of harming yourself or your family can be severe symptoms of postpartum psychosis.  If you are worried that you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, reach out to your physician for an assessment.

There are a lot of things beyond our control, but your mental health is within your grasp with this routine addition.  Taking care of yourself is one of the best things you can do for your baby. Whatever expectations you may have, remember to be kind to yourself!  It’s ok to make goals and adapt them throughout the year.  Life is full of the unexpected and we must do our best to roll with the punches.  You are not alone and there are multiple resources available to you within your community.