Focus on Post Natal Depression
The birth of a new baby is usually a time of joy, discovery and excitement. Family and friends visit the proud new parents to express their congratulations and to admire the new arrival. But what happens when the new mother is unable to share in their happiness?
Women who experience post natal depression often feel isolated and guilty for feeling sadness and depression after their baby has been born. They may feel that they are unable to cope with being a mother, but they are not alone.
It is estimated that one in ten new mothers suffer from post natal depression (PND for short). This is very different from the “baby blues” that half of new mothers experience. With baby blues the mother feels a bit weepy and unsure of themselves on the third or fourth day after the birth. This passes after a few days. PND can last for months if left untreated.
What causes PND?
There is much debate about the causes of PND but there is no confirmed reason as to why some women suffer from it and others don’t. If a woman has had PND after a previous birth she has a greater chance of experiencing it after the birth of her next child.
What are the symptoms of PND?
They can include: Tearfulness, extreme tiredness, insomnia, lack of interest, irritability, feelings of inferiority, mood changes, lack of sexual desire, feelings of guilt or hopelessness, anxiety about her own health or her baby’s and panic attacks.
What can you do if you suspect that you have PND?
- Believe you will get better
- Seek and accept help
- Talk to your doctor or public health nurse
Rest: Take as much rest as you can. This is very important, as tiredness seems to make depression worse. If you can, try and get a rest on your bed, every day, and sleep if possible. Avoid late nights if you can, and try to get someone else to feed the baby at night. Some doctors believe that rest, peace and quiet, after the birth can help to prevent postnatal depression, so rest must play an important part in your convalescence.
Diet: Do not go on a strict diet or go for long periods without food. Hypoglycemia - low blood sugar - can make things worse for a depressed mother. If you need to diet cut down on sweet and starchy foods and eat plenty of fruit or raw vegetables when you are hungry. Most mothers benefit from taking a multi mineral supplement tablet once a day.
Be kind to yourself: Do not force yourself to do things which you do not really want to do or which upset you. Treat yourself with a little kindness, and be occupied doing things which do not cause you anxiety.
Useful resources:
www.apni.org has some additional self help tips.
www.pni.org.uk This site has lots of useful information about PND.
www.parentline.ie This is available to offer support and advice about PND and other parenting issues. Their helpline phone number is: 1890-927-277 Monday to Thursday 10.00am to 9.30pm. Friday 10.00 - 16.30.
www.aware.ie This organization supports those living with depression and their families. Their helpline number is: 1890-303-302 Monday to Sunday 10.00 - 22.00. On Thursday to Sunday the helpline stays in operation after 22.00.
Recommended reading:
Postnatal depression a guide for mothers and families by Dr. Martina Corry (Aware publications 1991)
Coping with Post Natal Depression by Fiona Marshall (Sheldon press 1993)
Depression after childbirth by Katharina Dalton
NOTE: The information in this article is only offered as a guide and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If the problem become worse or continues, consult your health professional. If you have any questions about this article, you can email me: caroline@corkacupunctureclinic.com or use the online form to get in touch with me.