In Australia, Postnatal depression (PND) affects at least 14 % of new mothers (and this includes all new mums – not just first time mums).
The actual number of mums with Postnatal Depression is hard to accurately calculate as some mums who have PND may not seek help or have it diagnosed.
There has been more of a focus in recent years about mental health and tending to ones health and wellbeing.
PND does not have one specific or definite cause but it is known to be triggered by the birth of a baby.
Postnatal depression has the same signs and symptoms as depression such as experiencing a prolonged period of low mood, reduced interest in activities, tiredness and disturbance of sleep and appetite and negative thoughts and feelings.
Factors- one or a combination of
- A past history of depression and/or anxiety
- A ‘not so perfect pregnancy’ – either a stressful one or one that didn’t meet expectations
- A family history of depression or mental disorders
- Experiencing severe ‘baby blues’
- A difficult, prolonged labour or one with complications or not according to your birthing plan
- Baby health problems
- Difficulty breastfeeding or feeling pressure to breastfeed and a lack of support or a feeling of judgement or negativity if you do not breastfeed
- A lack of practical, financial and/or emotional support
- Being a single parent
- Having a ‘difficult’ baby- an unsettled baby or one that doesn’t sleep well or settle, etc
- Having unrealistic expectations.
Having PND is not all doom and gloom.
It is not something that you need to be ashamed of.
It is important to seek help.
There are a number of treatments available if you have PND.
What to do
If you suspects that you suffer from PND then we recommend the following:
- Visiting your DR or child health clinic for help. They will also be able to diagnosis and offer you treatment
- Joining support groups
- Taking time to look after yourself and taking time for yourself
- Asking for help with the children, the house, etc
- Restricting those who visit if you are tired, feeling overwhelmed, etc
- Getting people to call before coming to visit is good to enable you not to feel that you must see them
- Share your thoughts and feelings with friends and family
- Try to get good sleep
- Try to eat well.
To find out about the general symptoms of depression, do their checklist or find out more information or support www.beyondblue.org.au