I think I might be getting PPD!

[MamitaM]

I do have a history of depression and thought I might get it. I'm not sure if what I'm feeling is the start of PPD or just some frustration in general.

My son is really the perfect baby! He doesn't really cry except for when I'm in the bathroom and can't come to him right away. Other then that he just gives a little fuss and I figure out right away what he needs and he's fine.

I found myself really frustrated tonight though. I was hungry and my dinner wasn't turning out well,my tiny kitchen is a mess and my son needed me. He needed to be held and was crying. I hate when he cries,it makes me sad b/c really he never cries so it makes me think it's serious and he really needs me. I don't wear him while cooking,otherwise I would stick him in the Moby if he cries and I need to be hands free.

I have no family and friends who can offer help with housework or childcare so it's hard for me to be alone. I was totally fine up until now though. I just feel like I need a little break.

How do I know if what I'm feeling is real PPD or baby blues or just some frustration? What can I do to prevent any PPD?

[ladytigerfairy]

nutrition

I think that preventing ppd - is related to diet nutrition and supplements.. specifically taking something like DHA (fish oils) can be really really helpful - it's great for baby, but it's fantastic for momma's feelings of "health and well being" - i swear by this stuff.. ( i get the kind from nordic naturals) - but keeping an eye on your food - the right kinda protein (almonds), apples, whole grains, and having a well rounded diet is really really important..

exercise = very useful for seratonin and feelings of healthy well being - though i have to say, my exercise is usually related to walking a mile or so with a dog and a stroller, need more of that myself..

of course having an emotional support network, at least by phone or internet is also very helpful so you don't feel alone... (because you are never truly alone in the world with all this great modern day communication technology)..

check out your local herbal natural food store, there's a million health supplements you can take, and diet changes before going down the long slippery road of pharmaceutical anti-depressants..

[kayleesmom]

have you thought about talking to your doc? maybe some meds would help. either way sending you hugs

[MamitaM]

After writing this thread I felt better,but today I feel frustrated again!

It's a bit complicated this whole doctor thing. I don't think I actually have one of my own. I have one that I need to see one more time for my PP check up and that will be that. I see her sometime next week. Quebec sucks when it comes to doctors,there's a huge shortage of doctors.

I have a social worker who my doctor and doula encouraged me to see to help keep my depression in check. She's actually going to come over today and do a little quiz with me to see what's up.

I'm not that happy with her b/c I don't think she really understands what I'm asking her to help me with. It might be the language barrier I'm not sure. I'm recovering from a c-section birth and am all alone,yes I mean that for real. All alone with no one to help me with anything. So I asked about having someone come to help me clean or cook or something. She offered to have someone help me make puree for my baby! He's to young for this now. I'm told this is something they offer,but she says no to the help with cleaning.

I think I may get some Rescue Remedy and see if that helps me. I don't want meds yet b/c I breast feed my son and also pump to donate.

[kdaisy]

I couldn't read and not post...

I really can't say if what you are experiencing is PPD, only you and a professional can help you with that.

But, history of depression, recovering from a c-section, being without a support system, and just suspecting you might have PPD makes me feel the need to tell you to please seek help.

When I had PPD, I wondered about it until my son was almost 9 months. I discovered I had severe PPD bordering on psychosis. Going on Zoloft and getting talk therapy saved my life. I too was recovering from a c/s, but I had a pretty good support network in place even.

I just want to tell you to take care of yourself. There are many medications that are safe to take while breastfeeding. You may not be able to continue to donate, but there are more important things, IMO.

Sorry this is sort of rambling, I have a baby on my lap. Please feel free to PM me if I can offer any support.

[MamitaM]

Thank you for all the kind words and support. Most of my support system is on the net and I'm grateful for it.

My social worker was here today and we did a little quiz to see where I was with depression and it doesn't seem like I'm there. I think I just got really frustrated that she couldn't give me the help I needed with the housework last week and today I was frustrated that I got some government papers returned b/c I didn't send them all that I needed to.

My social worker can offer to have someone come in and care for the baby while I clean or cook or even shop for groceries. So I said I'd take that offer. I think it will help,but I also think it might be a little silly. I live in a studio apartment and if I'm cooking my son sees me and he will either be asleep when I cook and clean or he and the person sent to help will get in my way. I'll try it though. I think it will give us the chance to see how we both are away from each other,a little at least. One problem I have is that I'm not eating well enough. If I have someone watch my son while I cook a few meals for the next week or two I think it will help. It will also help for me to have someone to chat to in person while I cook. I won't feel as alone.