Postnatal depression is the term used for the depression that some women experience in the first year after having a baby.
Symptoms of postnatal depression may start as baby blues and then gradually get worse.
The symptoms don't necessarily appear as soon as you've given birth, but may take some time to develop.
They are usually most obvious when your baby is 4 to 6 months old.
Early diagnosis
If not treated, postnatal depression can last some time.
The earlier it is recognised and diagnosed, the earlier treatment can begin.
Signs of postnatal depression
Postnatal depression can have a broad range of symptoms which can vary in severity.
You may be feeling sad, anxious, alone, guilty, irritable and angry.
It's common that a woman suffering from postnatal depression feels distant from her baby.
Other symptoms
Other symptoms of postnatal depression include:
- loss of appetite
- poor concentration
- constant fatigue
- difficulty sleeping
- crying easily
- anger
- withdrawing from loved ones
- feeling numb or disconnected from your baby
- worrying that you will hurt the baby
- doubting your ability to be a good mom
- obsessive behaviour.
Asking for help
How often postpartum depression symptoms occur, how long they last, and how intense they feel can be different for each person.
Get help from your doctor if these feelings or symptoms last for more than two weeks or if you have any thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.
Your family and friends may notice that you have postnatal depression before you do.
If they mention this to you, take it seriously and seek professional help.
But remember, only a trained medical professional can actually diagnose postnatal depression.
Causes of postnatal depression
The exact cause of postnatal depression is not known.
But research suggests there are some factors that contribute to it. These include:
- Personal/family history: If you have a history of depression, this can be a risk factor for postnatal depression.
- Biological factors: A small number of women who develop postnatal depression have a temporary thyroid gland defect. This is linked to mood changes.
- Changes in lifestyle: Motherhood is a huge new responsibility and it can be overwhelming and exhausting. This can cause postnatal depression for some women.
- Strain on relationships: The birth of a baby can also have a huge impact on your relationships with your partner, family and friends. This can sometimes cause enormous strain.
- Stressful life events: Recent life events, such as bereavement or serious illness, may mean that you were stressed before the birth of your baby. You may also be stressed because of unemployment or lack of money.
- Lack of support: You may be more likely to suffer depression after having a baby if you do not have support from your partner or family.
- False expectations: Social media especially has created a very unrealistic of motherhood, postpartum bodies, and families. You won't always get everything right and you will learn as you go so stop putting pressure on yourself.
Treatment
There are different ways to treat the condition and most women can be treated successfully at home.
Treatment can include:
- Counselling/talk therapy: This should be done with a mental health professional such as a counsellor or psychologist
- Cognitive behaviour therapy and interpersonal therapy: These are two approaches in mental health that have proven to be effective with postpartum depression
- Medication: Your doctor might prescribe drugs to help regulate your mood
- Support system: A strong support system from family and friends may also help. Offering emotional support, encouraging a woman to talk with a healthcare provider, and helping with the newborn are all ways of providing help.
