How can I help someone with PPD?

[monkeybum]

Hi Mammas, a friend has just been diagnosed with PPD. I am at a loss as to what to do to help her and would appreciate any advice/suggestions. She has a 3 yo and 11 month old. I have kids the same age. Her father passed away recently. She didn't see much of him, he was older and in a nursing home, but it was still her father.

We are not "that" close, we've only known each other for about 2 years, but I would consider her a fairly good friend. We see each other about 2-3 times/month. I really like her and I feel that I should do something if I can to help her through this.

Not knowing of her PPD, I had noticed she seemed a little down lately, sleeping a lot, turning down invitations to lunch, outings with the kids, etc. But we vacationed together in July and she seemed fine, a little irritated with her DH, but not much else.

Her doc advised her to get out of the house 1/2 hour for a walk every day, which she is doing. He also told her not to sleep during the day. I don't think her 11 month old is sleeping very well at night so I know she is tired. She has been doing a lot of reorganizing of her home, cleaning out closets, etc. Her DH has been working long hours.

I thought about trying to watch her kids so she could have a break, but I don't think I could handle them - I have a hard time with just my own 2. I don't think I'm equipped to handle 2 three yo's and 2 babies at the same time. I hope that doesn't sound selfish, but I honestly don't think I could do it.

Any suggestions on if/what I could do?

Kathy.

[gwerydd]

offer to come over for tea or coffee. i found just having company to be a huge help. isolation makes depression worse. bring over a meal to help take some of that stress of her. i found what i wanted most was just some human contact, to feel that people were thinking of me. i think the best thing you can do for her is just to be there for her and to help her keep from isolating herself. HTH.

[jillmamma]

Originally Posted by gwerydd

offer to come over for tea or coffee. i found just having company to be a huge help. isolation makes depression worse. bring over a meal to help take some of that stress of her. i found what i wanted most was just some human contact, to feel that people were thinking of me. i think the best thing you can do for her is just to be there for her and to help her keep from isolating herself. HTH.

ITA! Or offer to walk with her when she goes out for her walks. Call her more often on the phone just to chat. I tend to isolate myself a lot when depressed, and just hearing from someone who cares makes a big difference. She is lucky to have you for a friend.