Postnatal Depression

It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit sad or a bit low after the birth of your baby. Remember, your body has been through a lot of changes and your hormones are all over the place. You are likely to be exhausted physically and emotionally. If these feelings don’t ease within a couple of weeks, or they feel like more than just tiredness, it’s worth mentioning to your GP or Public Health Nurse.

A new baby is a challenge for a woman of any age, so ask for help when you need it. If the ‘feeling low’ goes on a bit long – for more than two weeks – contact your GP or the Public Health Nurse, as you may be suffering from postnatal depression and need some professional treatment.  Remember, this is a very common condition that lots of mums (and even dads) get and help is available. It can be hard to tell the difference between the baby blues and something more, especially in the first couple of weeks, so trust your instincts, and if in doubt, ask.

There is a more extreme form of post-natal depression which is fairly rare, affecting 1 in 500 new mothers. This condition is known as postpartum psychosis. If you or someone you know is showing signs of experiencing extreme restlessness, mild confusion, inability to sleep, generally disconnected from reality, or has thoughts of harming themself or your baby, it is important seek help immediately by calling your GP, going to your nearest A&E, or calling 999/112. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

What is postnatal depression (PND)?

PND is a type of depression some women experience after they have had a baby. It usually develops in the first four to six weeks after childbirth, although in some cases it may not develop for several months. Some women also experience depression during pregnancy itself, known as antenatal depression, which is equally important to talk about.

There is often no reason for the depression, though certain factors such as a previous history of depression, lack of support, or a difficult birth can make some women more likely to experience it. There are many symptoms of PND, such as low mood, feeling unable to cope and difficulty sleeping, but many women are not aware that they have the condition. It is important for partners, family, friends and healthcare professionals to recognise the signs of PND as early as possible so that appropriate treatment can be given.

It is very important to understand that having PND does not mean you do not love or care for your baby.

Postpartum psychosis is a separate and much rarer condition to PND, and it requires urgent medical attention.

Finding support for postnatal depression

Talk to your family and friends and accept their offers of help – time off from the baby, help with shopping, a cup of coffee, a chat. Chatting to other parents who have had similar experiences sometimes helps. There may be a postnatal support group in some areas.

Professional help

Speak to the public health nurse or your GP about how you’ve been feeling and where you can get support. Treatment can include talking therapies, practical support, and in some cases medication.  Your GP can help you find the right fit for you.

Nurture Health is an organisation who offer professional counselling and supports surrounding pregnancy and childbirth maternal mental health illnesses to women, partners and their families.

You can also contact Aware, an organisation who helps those suffering with depression and bi-polar, on 1800 80 48 48 for support and advice about postnatal depression.

Pavee Mothers offer advice and support to Traveller mothers who may be experiencing postnatal depression.

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