Like you, some individuals can recover with therapy, exercise, sleep, and extra help around the home. This will help prevent them from being overwhelmed by all the tasks that a newborn brings, especially if there are other children to take care of as well. Exercise is paramount, as it helps your body produce endorphins, a chemical that triggers positive feelings in your body – which can create a positive and revitalizing attitude on life.
Many people reading this may think, “Great, but when do I have time to exercise?” This is the point when getting extra help is extremely valuable. If you can afford extra cleaning and babysitting help, now is the time to get it. Use the time to sleep, exercise, enjoy your own company, attend therapy for support, or bond with your older children. All of these activities will help you feel better and will begin the healing process. If you cannot afford the extra help, try to get a young girl to assist you or call the local high schools for information about girls who are willing to do chesed. But please, do not deny yourself help because you are embarrassed. Ultimately, you will feel much better if you make the effort to allow yourself the time that is needed to improve your situation.
The people who think that only crazy people go for therapy are absolutely wrong. Most therapy seekers are normal, functioning individuals who need some help in one or more aspects of their lives. Therapy can give individuals the needed support and can help them use their strengths to overcome their hurdles. Thank you again for your great insight and sensitivity. Hatzlachah!
