Postnatal depression is not a character flaw or a sign of weakness; instead, it can be considered a complication of childbirth. Remember the symptoms of postnatal depression are very real; it is not a figment of your imagination. It can interfere with your day-to-day life and prevent you from enjoying motherhood and bonding with your baby.
About 1 in 10 mums experience postnatal depression within a year of having a baby. It's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of postnatal depression. These can include:. Difficulty bonding with your baby or not having an interest in your little one. Only your doctor can diagnose postnatal depression and help you get the best possible treatment. Contact your doctor or health visitor right away if.
In reality, though, it is a complex condition and experts believe there are many other physical and emotional factors involved. A history of mental health problems. Depression or other mental health issues earlier in your life — or during or after previous pregnancies.
Lack of a support network. Having no close friends or family to support you or having problems with a relationship or marriage. Recent stressful events. These might include a bereavement, a traumatic breakup or job loss. Physical causes. Depression can also be triggered by physical conditions like an underactive thyroid gland or a vitamin B12 deficiency, which can easily be treated. Having twins. Parents of twins or other multiples may be at a higher risk of developing postnatal depression.
Baby blues refers to the low mood or feelings of mild depression that many mums experience in the first week or so after giving birth — a time when most people understandably expect to feel happy. The baby blues are thought to be caused by the hormonal and chemical changes that take place in your body straight after childbirth, and the symptoms usually only last for a few days.
In fact, up to 8 out of 10 mums go through something similar. During this time, what can help is for you to feel reassured and supported by those around you.
Getting as much rest as you can. Try and catch up on some sleep yourself whenever your baby sleeps. Talk to someone. Your midwife, health visitor and doctor are also there if you need advice or just someone to talk to.
Joining a mother and baby group is another good way of meeting people going through a similar experience, who can offer support and advice. Try not to compare yourself with other parents, and keep in mind that sometimes it takes time for a bond to form between you and your little one.
Give yourself a treat sometimes. To make time for this, ask someone you trust to look after your little one for a short time so that you can truly take the time to focus on yourself. Postnatal depression should not be confused with a much more serious disorder called postpartum psychosis, which involves more severe symptoms, such as hallucinations. Postpartum psychosis is very rare only 1 or 2 mums experience it for every 1, births , and it requires urgent treatment in hospital.
Talk to your doctor or health visitor as soon as you suspect you may have postnatal depression. Your health visitor or doctor will be able to diagnose postnatal depression based on how you are feeling and the symptoms you have. It is important to understand that neither the baby blues nor postpartum depression is due to anything that the woman has done. It is a common problem that many women experience, and it does not mean that they are bad mothers.
Researchers have also identified some risk factors for long term postpartum depression, noting that it is often a continuation of preexisting depression, rather than a new set of symptoms that starts at delivery. Some studies suggested that depression was more likely to affect women who are young, on a low income, or from a minority background, but the data were less consistent for these findings. The researchers urged doctors to be ready to spot the signs that postpartum depression is becoming chronic and to take into account the wider factors that may contribute to depression.
They also called for further studies on the causes of postpartum depression and its likely duration. The symptoms of postpartum depression include :.
Anyone who has concerns about how they are feeling after giving birth should see a doctor, who will be able to offer effective treatment. The treatment options may include:. Medication : A doctor may prescribe an antidepressant , such as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor SSRI. They will work with the individual to establish a suitable dosage. Once they achieve this, the woman may continue to use the medication for 6—12 months. The doctor will also discuss how the medication may affect breastfeeding.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation : This treatment uses magnetic waves to stimulate and activate nerve cells. It is noninvasive and will not interfere with breastfeeding. Doctors usually give this treatment five times a week for 4—6 weeks.
Counseling : Attending cognitive behavioral therapy CBT sessions may also help, especially if a woman does this in combination with other treatments. These include :. It is also a good idea to avoid making significant life changes around this time, as they can add to the stress. Very few mothers ever act on this. Get help from your GP or public health nurse if these feelings or symptoms last for more than 2 weeks or if you have any thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.
Do not let worrying thoughts you may have about your baby stop you from seeking help. Effective treatment is available. The vast majority of women with postnatal depression are treated at home with their 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 help from your GP or public health nurse. Free call Samaritans Read our cookies policy to find out more about cookies and how we use them.
Signs and symptoms Postnatal depression Signs and symptoms Causes Screening and treatment Getting help Advice for partners and families Postpartum psychosis. Signs of postnatal depression Postnatal depression can have a broad range of symptoms.
These can vary in how severe they are.
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