My Discombobulated Brain by Laura Jane Dernie

Look, lets be honest having a baby is hard, and I am not just talking about the birth. Our bodies change in ways that you can’t even imagine and will never truly be the same. But this isn't always a bad thing.

It isn't just your body that changes, your mind can and does too. My brain chemistry changed when I got pregnant and I now have a serotonin imbalance which portrays itself as depression. I have been through CBT, talking therapy and I am on medication. From this, I started this Charity - My Discombobulated Brain. During this time, I have done a lot of research and want to share with you these top ten tips about how to make yourself feel better. 

1. Stick with friends that make you feel good and avoid those that can make you feel bad.
2. Eat well and no, the left over cold pizza from last night isn't what I mean. 
3. Don't forget, how you feel now is not how you feel next week, next month, next year.
4. Take a break. You really do deserve it.
5. Laughter – really, that explosive poo that went everywhere is quite funny when you get over the fact that you have to clean it up and throw away the baby grow.
6. Keep active – it really does help. Even if it is just a wee walk around the park with the buggy. 
7. Drink responsibility – remember, alcohol is a depressant and hangovers suck, especially when you have a baby.
8. Ask for help. It is not a sign of weakness, having a baby is hard work.
9. Punch – let your stress out into a big soft object and not other people.
10. Deep breathing – take a big breath and count to ten. I used to think that this was rubbish but it isn't and it works.                                                                                          

It is also hard for those who have to watch the people they love struggle. It is ok for them to talk too. Stigma and discrimination can prevent people from seeking help. 90% of people with mental health problems say the stigma is harder than the diagnosis. 

If I could give you one tip, it would be: don’t give up on someone with a mental illness. If you’re finding it hard to be friends with them? They’re finding it harder, I promise.

For more information contact My Discombobulated Brain.