More of this Feature • Part 1: Postpatrum Depression • Part 2: Suzie's Story

Join the Discussion "Mainly, the key I found to getting out of the dumps is to change my self-talk which is a major component to what has kept me feeling "depressed" or hopeless. I have found that I had been telling myself "misbeliefs" about my situation (ie: things will never change, I can't take anymore, etc.) and perpetuating a feeling a hopelessness for myself, thus leaving me feeling constantly defeated. I was basically mentally beating myself up and not even realizing it at the time. The great thing is that we CAN change our thoughts and redirect them if we first recognize what is going on." BLESSEDXTWO

Related Resources • Caring for Twinfants • Finding Support

From Other Guides • Am I At Risk for PPD? • Postpartum Depression

Elsewhere on the Web • PPD Checklist • Depression After Delivery

by Suzie Chafin

Just as we establish routines for our children to help their days run smoother, mothers of multiples also need routines. These steps can help prevent the onset of Postpartum Depression and help get you to the other side if you are currently suffering from PPD.

Step 1: Begin Your Day The Right Way.

Even though you need your sleep, try to begin the day with a few moments to yourself before the rest of the family awakens. You could use the time to journal, meditate or just savor the silence. Doing this step first helps the rest of the day run smoother. My daily routine begins early, before the rest of the family is awake. It allows me to have time alone. It is my time to re-connect to my heavenly Father and ask Him for the things I need every day.

Step 2: Prioritize Your Tasks.

Pick the top three things you want to get done today and work on those things. The tasks may be simple and small like running a load of laundry, or taking a shower. Write it down and check it off. When it gets accomplished you will feel like you are making progress.

Step 3: Don't Sweat the Small Stuf.f

Conversely, if you do not get everything done in a day you want to - don't worry about it. Let every day be a new day. Let what you do in a single day be enough. If you have fed your children and loved your children you have already accomplished plenty!

Step 4: Take Time for Yourself.

Before I had children I never cared if I had time alone. Now I absolutely crave it. You need to have time without anyone making demands on you. You need time alone. When your husband comes home, take a walk, or take a bath. Even if you only get 15 minutes a day alone - take it!

Step 5: Take Care of Yourself.

Step 6: Ask For Help.

Step 7: End Your Day in Prayer or Meditation.

Take a few moments before you go to sleep to look back at your day. Pat yourself on the back for the things you did right that day, for the tasks you accomplished. End your day with a few quiet moments in prayer or meditation.

Suzie Chafin is a Dallas, Texas mom of four children, including identical twin boys. She writes and lectures about family topics such as postpartum depression, managing multiples and Christian parenting. She can be reached at suzie@novocoat.com.

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