A doula is someone who provides you with birthing support. Usually they work alongside a doctor or midwife during the birthing process. However, the best doulas are also available in

the weeks leading up to your due date, and they are trained on how to deal with postpartum should you need them following the birth of your baby. 

Because doulas

are trained on how to have babies the most natural way possible, they can also provide tips on how to make going through postpartum easier. For instance, a lot of

doulas are familiar with how making pills out of your own placenta (yep) can make the transition smoother. 

Click here to read more about that and

target="_blank">here to learn more about the benefits of hiring a doula.

While your hormones are all topsy-turvy, you’ve really got to watch what you feed your mind and spirit. If you’re watching, reading or listening to things that can make you

anxious or scared, that can trigger fear and even paranoia in you. It’s not uncommon for women who have committed crimes while they were going through postpartum depression to say

that they heard voices telling them to do so.

Click here to read up on some reasons why breastfeeding is so good, both for you and your baby (and there are plenty of ‘em!). One is that

it can make postpartum at lot easier to bear. Some studies indicate that women who make the decision to breastfeed for at least 2-4 months are actually a lot less

likely to have the disorder at all. 

Here’s the thing, though. Don’t pressure yourself into doing it. Do it because you want to. Sometimes it can be hard to produce

milk and if you’re forcing your body while you’re already depressed, that may make the depression worse.

Alcohol and caffeine are stimulants. They can make your body spike with energy and then crash. You’re already going to feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster. Opt for

drinks that will keep you calm instead. Some that top the list are chamomile tea and warm almond milk.

Massages are not only a treat; when you are a new mom, they are a necessity. They can reduce stress and help you to sleep better. But don’t forget about

getting one for your baby too. Studies reveal that infant massages help to relax them, which will reduce their crying time which can help to keep everyone in

the house more peaceful.

Whatever you do, PLEASE don’t rely solely on Google (or even this article) to diagnose you. Postpartum depression is NOTHING to take lightly. You need a professional to not only tell you

if you have it, but to monitor you as you heal from it. 

Again, it’s nothing to feel guilty about. You’re already a supermom for having your baby. Make you

apologies for doing what you have to do to get back to feeling your best again.