How to Help a Friend Going Through Postpartum Depression

While having a baby is a joyous occasion, many women suffer from postpartum depression as hormone levels continue to shift drastically. It can take up to 3 months for postpartum depression to set in, so if you notice your friend isn't herself after giving birth, no matter how many months later, there are some simple things you can do to help.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Offer to help out around the house. It's nearly impossible to accomplish even the most basic household chore with a newborn and watching the dishes and laundry pile up can be overwhelming and devastating to a new mom.
2. Visit often and encourage the new mom to take a nap or shower while you watch the baby. Sleep deprivation quickly worsens postpartum depression.
3. Bring a small gift that lets your friend know you're thinking of her. Often the baby is the center of attention when mom needs some attention as well.
4. Cook a meal that can be frozen. It can be tough to find time to eat, especially with a restless, colicky newborn. Keeping mom fed will help keep her spirits and strength up.
5. Take mom and baby out for a small trip. If the weather's nice, have a picnic at a park. If you need an indoor activity, walk around the mall.
6. Ask how your friend is doing and really listen to the response. She might joke about how her bathroom is a disaster, but in reality, the thought of finding time to clean it might make her want to hide in bed for the next week. Clean the bathroom for her or run that errand that needs to be done.