What is postnatal depression?
PND is a depression that comes on within 12 months of having a baby, usually during the first few weeks or months. It can start slowly or suddenly, and can range from very mild and transient, to severe and lingering. For most women, it passes quickly, but others will need professional help.
Causes of postnatal depression
a history of mental health problems, particularly depression, earlier in life. a history of mental health problems during pregnancy. having no close family or friends to support you. a difficult relationship with your partner.
What are the postnatal effects on mother?
Most new moms experience postpartum “baby blues” after childbirth, which commonly include mood swings, crying spells, anxiety and difficulty sleeping. Baby blues usually begin within the first 2 to 3 days after delivery and may last for up to two weeks.
Symptoms of postnatal depression
A persistent feeling of sadness and low mood.
Feeling particularly low at certain times of the day, such as mornings or evenings.
Loss of interest in everyday life and the things that once gave you pleasure.
Not enjoying spending time with your baby.
Feeling constantly exhausted and tired.
Getting tearful for no apparent reason
Changes to your normal ways of functioning
Disturbed sleep, such as feeling sleepy all day but struggling to sleep at night.
Difficulty concentrating and finding it hard to make decisions.
Low self-confidence or self-esteem.
Changes to appetite (eating more, less or forgetting to eat) or loss of libido.
Thinking about suicide or self-harming.
Increased anxiety
Specialized therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are used to help guide clients through their problems – enabling them to understand the nature of their depression and how they can change their thoughts and behaviours to reach their full potential and enjoy being a parents.