Postnatal Depression: Understanding and Overcoming PND

Postnatal Depression (PND) affects as many as 1 in every 10 women. It can occur at any time from delivery during up until two years after childbirth. In the few days following childbirth, women experience a drop in hormone levels which can result in the ‘baby blues’. This often resolves itself after a week or so and should not be confused with PND. PND is an illness and although it can feel overwhelming, it is very treatable.

PND Symptoms

PND sufferers may suffer one or all of the following symptoms. This list should not be used for self-diagnosis and professional help should be sought if there are any concerns one might be suffering from this condition.

• Difficulty falling asleep or insomnia
• Panic or anxiety attacks
• Exhaustion or extreme tiredness
• Lack of interest in baby/ worrying a lot about baby
• Crying more than usual or crying over little things
• Angry outbursts or feelings of anger
• Feeling irritable
• Physical symptoms such as headaches or dizziness

In some cases the PND is much more severe, this can occur if PND goes undiagnosed for a long time. It is important to get immediate help if any of the following symptoms present themselves:

• Severe insomnia (not sleeping at all for days)
• Fear of social interactions or leaving the house
• Thoughts of self harm
• Thoughts of harming the baby
• Hallucinations
• Suicidal feelings

Who Will Get Postnatal Depression

Anyone can develop postnatal depression after childbirth. There are some people who are more at risk of developing PND. Having previous depression or anxiety can, but not always, lead to PND. Women who suffered depression during pregnancy are also at a higher risk of PND.

Having problems in your relationship, problems with money or any other stresses can also lead to depression. Women who do not have family and friends close by may feel isolated and can develop postnatal depression. In some cases there is no apparent reason for developing PND.

Treatment For PND

Depending on the severity of the depression there are various treatments available. Depression is usually treated with anti-depressants and/or some form of talking therapy or counselling. In mild cases it is usually not necessary for antidepressants to be prescribes and many women will find relief through talking to friends and family or a trained mental health professional.

Coping With PND

PND sufferers can get better. Talking to close friends or family can often help to alleviate mild depressive symptoms however should not be an alternative to seeking professional help. It can be extremely helpful to have some ‘Me’ time everyday. Take this time to have a bath, read a book, watch some DVD’s or anything else relaxing.

Keeping a daily journal can be a great coping tool. Writing down feelings can help to alleviate angry or depressive thoughts. If it is difficult to talk out loud about your feelings, showing a doctor or therapist this journal can really help.

Some Useful Links

www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Postnataldepression/Pages/Introduction.aspx

www.ppdsupportpage.com/