Do you also feel sad and lonely after having a baby? Let's talk about postpartum depression.

The joy of bringing home a baby is indescribable, isn't it? That new smell, the love you feel when you look at the little hands and feet... But sometimes, along with that joy, there are times when feelings like sadness, anxiety, and loneliness come to mind. Have you ever felt that way? In fact, almost every new mother goes through this experience. But it's important to recognize whether this is normal or something we should pay more attention to.

Is this 'Baby Blues'? Or is it something more?

After having a baby, about three-quarters of mothers experience the 'baby blues'. This is very common. Think about it, having a baby is the biggest change in your life. At the same time, your body's hormone levels change suddenly from pregnancy. When all this comes together, it's normal to feel emotional and just want to cry.

There are two main differences between 'baby blues' and true postpartum depression.

1. How long you feel sad.

2. How strongly and intensely those feelings are felt.

The 'baby blues' usually start a few days after the baby is born. It usually goes away after about two weeks. But if you're still feeling sad after 15 days, don't immediately assume it's depression. It's not something that can be measured in exact days.

The feeling of 'baby blues' is also a little different. It's not just sadness, it's a feeling of being overwhelmed with emotions. You can cry because you're sad, but you can also cry because you're happy and in love with your baby. It's a time when you feel every emotion at its best.

How is postpartum depression diagnosed?

Postpartum depression is a more serious, longer-lasting condition. It's like feeling down all day and seeing everything you do through a gray glass. See if you have any of these symptoms.

Does the rainy season affect this situation?

Although there is no such thing as "winter" in our country, there are days with continuous rainy seasons and dark weather. When you are stuck at home during such days, loneliness and sadness can increase. Some women have a condition where their mood changes with the weather. It is called `(Seasonal Affective Disorder - SAD)`. That means they are more prone to depression during the dark and less sunny times of the year.

Even if you haven't experienced this before, being stuck at home with a newborn can make you feel even more lonely in the dark and cold of a rainy day. A study in Finland even found that mothers are more likely to experience this type of stress during the dark and cold times of the year.

How can you plan ahead and get help?

If your baby is due during the rainy season, and you usually feel sad during such times, it's a good idea to plan a little in advance.

• Arrange for someone to help: Talk to someone you trust, like your husband, mother, sister, or mother-in-law, in advance to help with household chores and babysitting.
• Connect with other moms: Connect with other moms you've met through prenatal classes or breastfeeding education programs. Moms who have had babies at the same time can understand each other's struggles.

A few tips to relax with your baby

You don't have to stay home all day just because it's rainy season. Try these things to reduce the weight you feel.

• Take a short walk: On a sunny day, take your baby outside for a walk. Sunlight is one of the best medicines for making you happy.
• Walk in a shopping mall: Put your baby in the stroller and walk around a shopping mall or large supermarket. If you want to breastfeed your baby, you can do so freely in a fitting room at a clothing store.
• Have a cup of tea with a friend: Go to a cafe when there are fewer people and chat with a friend who understands your feelings.
• Take a short drive in the car: Many babies sleep well in the car. Put your baby in the car seat, listen to some of your favorite songs, and take a short drive.
• Connect online: On days when you can't leave the house, talk to other moms online. You can get a lot of support from things like Facebook groups and WhatsApp groups.

What if medical treatment is needed?

Sometimes it's hard to deal with these feelings alone. At times like these, it's essential to seek medical advice. When you talk to your doctor, he or she will suggest the most appropriate treatment for you.

Some people may benefit from non-drug treatments such as light therapy. If dark weather is particularly bothersome to you, talk to your doctor about this. You may also consider counseling or, if necessary, medication.

Asking for help gives you the opportunity to care for yourself and your baby with the love you've always dreamed of.