Postnatal Depression, known as PND, is a common experience for women after they have had a baby - approximately 1 in 7 women will experience this.
What is Postnatal Depression (PND)?
Postnatal depression is a sustained period of low mood that persists for a minimum of 2 weeks. It is similar to depression during other times in your life, but is called postnatal depression when it occurs within 12 months of a baby being born. Women with PND vary in symptoms, and many feel bonded to their baby, but are struggling emotionally with the day to day challenges. PND can also present as heightened irritability and anger, and it is common for mothers to report symptoms of uncharacteristic anger or rage outbursts.
Common Symptoms of PND
feeling low or numb – some people describe feeling nothing at all
lack of interest and/or pleasure in life, yourself and/or the baby
no energy – finding it difficult to cope and get through the day (may also be attributed to lack of sleep)
loss of confidence, low self esteem, feeling guilty, helpless, hopeless and worthless
often feeling close to tears, highly sensitive to other’s comments or emotional
feeling angry, irritable or resentful towards other mothers, the baby or your partner
changes in sleep – not being able to sleep even when you have the opportunity, or conversely, wanting to sleep all the time (eg even when the baby in asleep)
changes in appetite – accompanied by weight loss or weight gain
difficulties concentrating, thinking clearly or making decisions (which could also result from lack of sleep)
feeling isolated, alone and disconnected from others
having thoughts of harming yourself, baby and/or other children which may include suicidal thoughts or ideas.
Pessimism
Negative thoughts such as being a failure or bad mother, that your family is better off without you, that you aren’t cut out to be a parent, that you are somehow damaging or harming your baby.
Irritability
Loss of libido
Fears for the safety or wellbeing of the baby and/or the partner
What are the risk factors of Postnatal Depression?
Previous depressive episodes or previous mental health issue
Lack of family and peer support
Sleep deprivation
Difficulty or distressing birth experiences
Family history of mental health issues
Previous pregnancy losses
Unsettled or unwell baby
Sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations
Having a baby with special needs (premature birth, medical complications, illness)
Other emotional stressors, such as the death of a loved one or family problems
Financial or employment problems
Lack of stability
What can be done to treat PND?
Don’t suffer alone. Reach out to your GP and connect in with a psychologist, psychiatrist or mental health worker so that you can start treatment - there are therapy and medication options, including safe options for breastfeeding or pregnant mothers.
Mobilise any supports you have or work with your therapist to build your community. Parenting is hard and we aren’t suppose to do this in isolation.
Get as much sleep as possible - this is a priority for sleep deprived mothers.
Cut down on unnecessary tasks or outsource whatever you can. It’s ok to simplify.
Learn to ask for help. If you have a partner, it’s ok for them to step up in parenting and home duties.
Remember that PND is treatable. It’s not your fault, and help is available. The hardest step is making that decision to connect in with support, but once you do, you will be on your way to overcoming this struggle. Our experienced therapists are aware of how hard this first step is and will help to make this process as safe as possible. Book in today.