Postpartum depression is not uncommon in new mothers. When you're depressed, even simple chores can seem like monumental tasks. All new moms feel overwhelmed. No one hands out a set of instructions for baby care when you leave the hospital with your new son or daughter. Especially if this is the first child, the sense of responsibility can be daunting. There's so much you can do to help mom through the postpartum depression phase, when those hormones are re-establishing themselves back to pre-pregnancy levels.

The Dos:

• Encourage the new mom to sleep when the baby sleeps.

• Wash the dishes.

• Do the laundry.

• Help with the general housework and cleanup.

• Do the grocery shopping.

• Spend some time with the other children, so they don't feel pushed out of the picture.

• Schedule a massage for mom.

• Spend some time just talking about non-stressful topics.

• Say “I love you.”

• Spend time with the baby. It's definitely time well spent.

If you're the new father, you may feel as if you've been set aside. It can be frustrating, and you may even feel some anger, as you want your family life to return to a normal pattern. This will happen, but it may take a little time to get everything running smoothly. Postpartum depression usually passes within a few weeks, and your patience and understanding will be much appreciated.

The Don'ts:

• Don't let your own routine suffer. You need time to yourself, as much as your partner does.

• Don't let your own health regimen slide. Keep yourself healthy. Work out, eat right, and get enough sleep.

• Don't let a sense of needing to do it all keep you from asking for help from friends and family.

• Don't pressure your partner into resuming sexual relations before she's ready.

• Don't get drawn into an argument, but be willing to talk through the problems.

• Don't forget that your partner is still the same woman you fell in love with. She'll be back shortly!