i haven't been happy in so long - first time mom

As a therapist and as someone who has been depressed, this reasoning makes sense.

However, I agree that it sounds like depression. Given that this is your first time with post-partum depression (assuming based on first time mom), it could be the hormonal changes that are causing your depression to present differently. And if it’s largely influenced by physiological changes, then proper nutrition and regular exercise are likely going to be key. And sleep. Good sleep helps.

This next bit is for people who struggle with proper nutrition and regular exercise (me included lol): I know it’s hard to do, but you don’t have to start doing everything at once. This kind of balance is a goal to work towards - not an insta-habit to implement immediately and maintain indefinitely. Start by snacking on a handful of baby carrots and dip instead of crackers. Go for a walk around the block (do another lap if you feel like it, but don’t pressure yourself). Prioritize getting all of your required nutrients instead of focusing on cutting things out - i.e., focus on eating your vegetables, not avoiding cookies. And speaking of vegetables - if you can, just pay the extra fees for things like pre-cut veggies. Let’s be real - that full head of broccoli is likely going to end up as mushy, wasted money anyway.

/r/adhdwomen Thread Parent