A study (Stickel et al., 2020) collected hair samples from women less than one week postpartum and 12 weeks postpartum to measure amounts of hair cortisol (HCC) and hair cortisone (HCNC). The women were evaluated and placed in a non-depressed (ND) group, postpartum depression (PPD) group, or postpartum adjustment disorder (AD) group. With regards to HCC and HCNC levels, it was found that women in the AD and ND groups had naturally decreased numbers, whereas the women in the PPD group’s HCC and HCNC levels remained constant. The authors conclude that there may be a relationship between PPD and typical glucocorticoid changes postpartum. This may result in increased difficulty for women with PPD to adjust to novel stressful situations. Other studies have also found a relationship between HCC/HCNC with self-reported depression (Scharlau et al., 2017).
Because cortisol has been linked with depression and is used to assess functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis (Stickel et al., 2020), it is wise to consider how strengthening the HPA axis could help the woman prevent or manage PPD. Learning about the HPA axis and measures that will lead to proper functioning of this important feedback mechanism can bring awareness of the importance of self-care, even during the exhausting postpartum time. Following is a concise list of simple steps that may help in keeping the HPA axis regulating normally.
- Keep a healthy and clean diet, high in healthy carbohydrates and avoiding processed foods, not dieting
- Regulate your blood sugar by eating proper amounts of protein
- Support the microbiome
- Eat foods high in vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium
- Drink green tea and licorice root tea (may interact with medications)
- Attempt some form of exercise daily, even if just walking around outside for however many minutes you can afford
- Meditate on the Word of Yahuah
- Cope with distorted thinking by naming, feeling, surrendering, and redirecting
- Seek help when feelings are too overwhelming, psychotherapy has been found to help
Adapted from (Guy-Evans, 2021) and (Christensen, 2020)
For the believer, dependence on the Word and heading to the Spirit of Yahuah leads to decisions that will be helpful physically, emotionally, and spiritually. He comforts those that are hurting and is always available to those who diligently seek Him. He provides completeness (shalom) for those who trust in Him.
Blessed be the Elohim and Father of our Master יהושע Messiah, the Father of compassion and Elohim of all comfort,who is comforting us in all our pressure, enabling us to comfort those who are in every pressure, through the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by Elohim.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
But without belief it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to Elohim has to believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who earnestly seek Him.
Hebrews 11:6
The one steadfast of mind You guard in perfect peace, for he trusts in You.
Isaiah 26:3
These words I have spoken to you, that in Me you might have peace. In the world you have pressure, but take courage, I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
Peace I leave with you – My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
John 14:27
Ground yourself on the Rock.
Shalom.
Disclaimer: The information in this website is true and complete to the best of my knowledge, often with facts interpreted by a Scriptural worldview. This website is intended only as an informative guide for those wishing to know more about trauma and postpartum stress based on assignments completed for the purpose of a degree. In no way is this website intended to replace or conflict with advice given by your own practitioner. The decision for your care is yours, as decided between you and the professional you have trusted. Information on this website is general and is offered with no guarantees on behalf of the author. The author disclaims all liability in connection with the use of this website.
Discerning Trauma 