Postnatal Depression

One in ten women feel depressed after having a baby. I can be very distressing, especially if the woman has been looking forward to having the baby through months of being pregnant. It usually starts within a month of giving birth but can take up to six months to develop.

People with postnatal depression (or PND) can feel low and unhappy, sometimes irritable with partners and family and are often exhausted. They often lose their appetite or start to comfort eat. Sex drives can often plummet. PND can make sufferers feel like they cannot cope with anything and that this can lead to them feeling guilty and anxious. It can affect the bond a mother has with her baby, she may find it hard to structure a routine, or may feel detached from the baby rather than close to it. She may be afraid to be alone with the baby if she feels she cannot cope. Even if mothers feel string attachment and love towards the baby they can still feel anxious.

It is normal for new mums to feel anxiety but with PND this is intensified and can feel overwhelming. Mums may need lots of reassurance from health visitors, doctors and family.

It is hard to know for sure but people are more likely to get it if:

• They have had depression before
• They do not have a supportive partner
• They have a premature or sick baby
• They lost their own mother when they were young
• They have had several recent life stresses

However, someone can get PND with none of these things happening, and these things do not mean someone will get PND.

It is important that medical help is sought so a proper diagnosis can be made. Lots of sleep and healthy eating can help. It is important for partners and family to be understanding and encouraging and reassuring, and to try to help out with the care of the baby. PND is quite common so do not be shocked or upset by the diagnosis. Also make sure you have some support yourself. If someone has severe PND they may be offered therapy or antidepressants.

According to research, around 10% of new fathers become depressed. It is more common for first time fathers, those who have had depression before, current stressful situations and those whose partner has PND. It can feel isolating and overwhelming and can affect the bond with your baby. Some fathers feel left out by the attention that is focused on the mother. It is important not to ignore these feelings and to seek help. You are more likely to recover more quickly if you get help sooner. Sometimes men feel it hard to admit they are depressed and to ask for help, but there is a lot more awareness and understanding about this issue now.

• Association for Postnatal Depression
  Helpline: 0207 386 0868
• http://www.mind.org.uk/
• http://www.sane.org.uk/