When preparing for a baby it involves a lot of hard work. Your health should come first. You should try to resist the urge that a lot of women get and avoid trying to get everything done. It is essential for one to cut down on their chores and only do those things that will help them to relax. Mothers need to learn that taking care of themselves is an important part of taking care of their unborn baby.

It has been found very helpful for expecting mothers to talk about the things that may concern them. Talk to your friends ; family; or your partner. If it is support that you need , you don't have to look very far.

If you find that everything has failed you , seek therapy. Antidepressants have been known to help. New evidence has shown that it is safe to treat depression while one is pregnant, for a short term. Long term effects have yet to be studied. If you are expecting and suffering from depression , you should consult your doctor for treatment. Never treat yourself with medication without your doctor prescribing it for you. Some medicines tend to affect the unborn baby.

The stresses of one being pregnant can cause depression or a recurrence of depression symptoms. If you suffer from depression during your pregnancy, you are at a greater risk of having another episode after delivery known as postpartum depression.

Depression has been known to effect the ability for a woman to care for herself during pregnancy. It has also often put many mothers at the risk of using substances that could possibly harm both the mother and developing baby. The use of alcohol; tobacco; and illegal drugs can truly harm the mother and unborn child. Mother's that suffer from depression often find it hard to bond with their baby.

There are several known causes of depression during pregnancy.

History of depression

The mother's age at the time of pregnancy

Living alone

Limited social interaction

Children - It is proven that the more children you have , the more you are likely to become depressed during a later pregnancy.

Martial problems

Uncertainty about the pregnancy

Pregnancy should be a time for women to relax and enjoy getting prepared for the birth of their son or daughter. One could be lucky and have twins. This should be a bonding time for the expecting mother and partner. After all, once the baby arrives it is no longer just the two of you, now it is time for family bonding. Baby makes three. Remember that pregnancy is lonely short term, so relax. Nine months will pass in no time. You should always be thinking of what a joyous occasion that will bring you and your life.
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Everyone goes through periods of "the blues." But when it goes on for a long time, or has side effects that make even small things difficult to accomplish, you may be suffering from depression. Understanding the causes and signs of depression can help you or someone you care for seek appropriate treatment. Depression can be devastating, but help is available.


UNDERSTAND THE CAUSES
Depression can be caused by overwhelming losses such as the death of a friend, severe illness or divorce. Some people have difficulty facing the sadness, anger, shame or remorse that can go along with such an event. They become depressed as their feelings numb.
People who feel powerless over a situation often feel depressed. For example, those with very high standards may feel especially bad when they try hard, yet fail to meet their goals. If someone dies, they may be certain they could have prevented it. If they're fired from a job, they may blame themselves again and again, rather than let go of their disappointments.

Loneliness and lack of affection can cause depression. Turning anger inside, which is more common for women than for men, is another cause. Expressing anger in a healthy way can help relieve it. Physical conditions such as hidden food allergies, poor diet or low blood sugar can also cause depression.

RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS:

Someone who is depressed may show signs such as:

· loss of interest in home and work;

· frequent crying;

· change in eating habits: eating too much or too little;

· unexplained nervousness or grouchiness;

· poor self-image;

· lack of energy for regular activities;

· change in sleep patterns

TREATMENT CAN HELP:

When someone is depressed, life loses its sparkle and meaning. Spending time with a special friend can help. But sometimes, the depression hangs on stubbornly for weeks or months. If you or someone close to you is experiencing this kind of depression, seek professional counseling. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may include:

· professional counseling;

· aerobic exercise, such as running or swimming;

· practicing positive self-talk

· scheduling activities throughout the day;

· vitamin B6, folic acid and or niacin supplements;

· medication, if indicated.

Treatment for depression can range from professional counseling to something as simple as aerobic exercise.
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