Friday, December 16, 2011

Post-"work"tum Depression

As some of you may know, I started working this past week(FULL-TIME). And I must admit that I am suffering from an acute case of Post-"work"tum Depression. Post-"work"tum Depression is a new term I coined that is very similar to Post Partum Depression.

This is my definition of Post"Work"tum depression:

Post-worktum depression is moderate to severe depression in a woman after she starts working for the first time after becoming a mother. It may occur soon after the start date or up to a year later. Most of the time, it occurs within the first 3 months after hire date. 
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
  • Women commonly have mood changes during new hire phase, especially after arriving home after a long day away from her baby. These mood changes may be caused by changes in hormone levels. However, many non-hormonal factors may also affect mood during this period:
  • Changes in your body from not having time or energy to workout, run, go to the gym, or go for a walk.
  • Changes in work and social relationships-or lack there of since you no longer have time to meet with friends you used to have.
  • Having less time and freedom for yourself and doing the things that MATTER TO YOU
  • Lack of sleep
  • Worries about your ability as a mother since you are seeing your child 10-12 hours A WEEK.
Feelings of anxiety, irritation, tearfulness, and restlessness are common in the week or two after hire date. These feelings are often called the post-worktum or "working mommy blues." These symptoms almost always go away soon, without the need for treatment. A lot of mothers experience this but "get used" to their new life, adjust, and do what they have to do.

I know millions of women have balanced work, life, and MOMMYHOOD before me...and I will too. But the thing about feeling this way is that I don't see how it's possible to adjust being away from your baby ALL DAY. But like post partum depression...this feeling shouldn't last FOREVER.....right?!?!?!

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Quotes to Live by:

A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.

Be kinder than necessary, everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

When you help someone up a hill, you get that much closer to the top yourself.