How to avoid postpartum depression

6. Enlist good support during birthing
Make sure to surround yourself with people who can give you the support you need during childbirth. Perhaps that's your partner, or maybe it's your mother, your partner, and your best friend. You should also consider hiring a doula to help you through the process. Do whatever it takes to feel supported during delivery in order to have the best possible experience.

7. Prepare yourself well for childbirth
Taking a childbirth education class is helpful, but don't stop there. Read as many books or articles on the topic as you can manage. Talk to other women about their experiences. Many childbirth classes skim over crucial aspects of childbirth, like C-sections, and you should be well-informed on every possible outcome in the delivery room so there will be no surprises. If you know what to expect, you're less apt to have a traumatic childbirth experience.

8. Enlist household help during the postpartum period
You will be in no condition to cook meals and clean the house in the first few weeks after your baby is born, especially if you have a C-section, so arrange for people in your support system to help you. Have someone go grocery shopping for you to stock up on frozen entrees and easy snacks. Let your sister vacuum the living room floor for you. Your support system is there to help -- use them. If you don't have a support system you can depend on, think about hiring outside help until you're back on your feet. Having someone come to your house to clean up twice a week and even cook some meals for your family will be a huge relief for you.

9. Find a strong emotional support -- and take advantage of it
Your support system is also there for you to lean on when you're feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or just plain tired. Talk to them about how you're feeling and how your life is changing. You'll feel a lot better after you've vented. You should also use your support system to create some time for yourself whenever you can. Let your mother watch the baby while you take a long, hot bath. Let your best friend babysit while you and your partner go out for dinner.

10. Attend a PPD support group
The best support often comes from people who have been where you are and know what you are going through. Talk to your obstetrician, a therapist, your baby's pediatrician, or other moms, and find out where your local PPD support group meets.

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Excerpted from Postpartum Depression Demystified: An Essential Guide for Understanding and Overcoming the Most Common Complication after Childbirth by Joyce A. Venic, RNC, and Suzanne McCloskey. Copyright 2007 by Joyce A. Venice and Suzanne McCloskey. Excerpted by permission of Marlowe and Company, an imprint of Avalon Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.