You’re not alone if the excitement of welcoming multiples has been contrasted by feelings of loneliness, isolation, or anxiety. While some baby blues are common, it’s important to know the signs of Postpartum depression (PPD), which is a treatable mental health condition that affects about 1 of every 7 mothers. This risk is even higher for moms of twins, particularly those having twins in their 40s.
PPD can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
Depression:Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty
Anxiety:Feeling anxious, restless, or worried
Irritability:Feeling easily annoyed or angry
Changes in appetite:Eating more or less than usual
Changes in sleep:Sleeping more or less than usual
Changes in energy levels:Feeling exhausted all the time
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
The specific challenges of caring for multiples
Caring for multiples can be a very challenging experience. Mothers of multiples often have to deal with:
Less sleep
More physical demands
More financial strain
More social isolation
Higher risk of PPD
Postpartum tips for moms of multiples:
It is imperative to accept help with the logistics, including:
Meals: having freezer meals prepped or accepting offers for porch dropped food can help immensely for several months after bringing your babies home.
Siblings: If your multiples have older siblings, making a plan for visitors to focus on caring for older siblings is another concrete boost of support.
Sleep: If you have visitors who can stay overnight or come by in the evenings, don’t hesitate to advocate for night-shift help. It is important to maximize any sleep you can get. Remember, it is not your job to host or cater to others. Right now, it is your job to rest and recover.
You are not alone
If you are struggling or think you may be experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, please reach out for help and connect with your doctor. Many resources are available to help you get the support you need.