7 Tips for Preventing Postpartum Depression
Updated: 6 days ago
One of the most scariest diagnosis in the 4th trimester is postpartum depression. However, it doesn't have to be a bleak time. You have the right to enjoy your motherhood. Below are 7 ways we can start the conversation around prevention. And if you want to continue the conversation, talk to Dr. Patel directly.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, severe postpartum depression, or thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please seek immediate help. The content on this website/post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or emergency care.
In an Emergency: Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.
National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (Available 24/7, free, and confidential in the US & Canada).
Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) for 24/7, free, confidential support for pregnant and new moms (US).
Postpartum Support International (PSI):
Call or Text HelpLine: 1-800-944-4773 (Voice in English/Spanish, Text in English: 800-944-4773, Text in Spanish: 971-203-7773).
Note: PSI is a support helpline, not an immediate crisis line. For urgent crises, please call 988 or 911.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor 24/7.
Create your Sisterhood
Social support is one of the most consistently replicated protective factors against PPD in maternal mental health research, alongside sleep, nutrition, and screening for personal/family history of depression.
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3. Get your Vitamin D
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): The AAP recommends that exclusively and partially breastfed infants receive a daily Vitamin D supplement of 400 IU (international units) starting from the first days of life. For breastfeeding mothers, the AAP suggests they continue taking prenatal vitamins containing Vitamin D or supplement with 600 to 800 IU of Vitamin D daily to ensure sufficient levels in breast milk.
4. Take a Dr. Patel Prolactin Nap
5. Go to a Baby Cafe, Even if you are not breastfeeding!
6. Use our FREE AI Chat
If you or a loved one is concerned about the upcoming journey after birth, Dr. Sonal Patel can help. Her services are available both nationally and locally in the Denver area. Patients throughout the U.S. can schedule a FREE 20-minute consultation or get their postpartum questions answered 24/7 through our AI Naya Chat.
7. Download our Guide
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