Once you have been diagnosed with a postpartum mood disorder (PPMD) the doctor may prescribe anti-depressants. Whether you are prescribed medication or not, there are a few things you can do to help your recovery.

Remember, you may not feel well enough to do all of the things listed. Use the list as a reminder for what you can try to do while you are getting better.

The most important thing for you to do right now is to follow your doctor's treatment plan and continue to take your medication if it has been prescribed.

Keep in touch with family and friends and let them know how you are feeling. After that, do what you can. Take small steps, try not to be too hard on yourself and take one day at a time.

Here are some suggestions to try:

• Rest when your baby sleeps.
• Let your partner know how you are feeling.
• Make your needs a priority.
• Let others know what they can do to help.
• Avoid strict or inflexible schedules.
• Give yourself permission to have negative feelings.
• Screen phone calls.
• Do not expect too much from yourself right now.
• Allow yourself a moment to laugh.
• Avoid overdoing anything.
• Be careful asking too many people for advice.
• Trust your instincts.
• Set limits with your guests.
• Avoid people who make you feel bad.
• Set boundaries with people you can't avoid.
• Eat well.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Take a walk. 
•  Set small goals for yourself.
• Stay on all medications you have been prescribed.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help.
• Get out of the house.
• Don't feel guilty, it wastes energy.
• Play.
• Expect some good days and some bad days.
• Prioritize what needs to be done and what can wait.
• Thank your partner for helping you.
• Don't compare yourself to others.
• Be very specific about what you need from your partner.
• Do not blame yourself.
• Hand over household duties to others.
• Do the best you can. If it doesn't feel like enough, it's enough for now.
• Encourage your partner to seek support from friends and outside activities.
• Confide in someone you trust.
• Remind yourself that all adjustments take time.

Reference:

• The Postpartum Stress Center, www.postpartumstress.com