Postpartum Depression - One Year Later

I am a survivor of postpartum depression. Lately, I have been reflecting on my journey through the disease, because it was just a year ago that I finally felt full relief from my symptoms. My daughter, who is now 18 months old and brings me so much joy every day, was born premature due to a variety of health conditions that were affecting me. As a result, she stayed in the hospital and I was sent home empty-handed. This, along with the myriad of drugs I was on before she was born, is what I truly believe sparked my journey through depression.

I felt hopeless, and I felt like I would never enjoy being a mommy. You can read more of my story in How I Was Treated for Postpartum Depression. What I want to focus on now is the "after" part of the story.

For the women (and spouses) reading this article who are in the midst of postpartum depression right now, let me assure you that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Last year, I decided to go back to work even though my husband and I always wanted me to stay home with our children. I did not think that I could handle staying home emotionally. Today, I am staying home with my daughter and loving every minute of it. Well, almost every minute. I am sure every stay at home mom has "those" days. The point is, I no longer feel that being home with my daughter is a trap. It is a joy to me now, whereas a year ago all I wanted was to go back to work.

I have taken measures to make sure that I do not become too crazy staying home, however. When my daughter finally came home from the hospital, we were not allowed to go anywhere due to the fact that she had a weak immune system. I felt so cooped up, and that only made the depression worse. I know that this could easily happen again, so I make an effort to go somewhere every day. Even if we just walk around the block or go to the grocery store for milk, we leave the house daily.

If you are not enjoying motherhood as you expected, it could be postpartum depression. Talk to your doctor right away!

Credit: Soòa Psotová

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