Recognising Post Natal Depression Symptoms
Having a baby is a major life altering event. It is essential to recognize the signs of depression or anxiety during the perinatal period and seek assistance as soon as you notice these symptoms.
Many people experience 'babyblues' within the first few weeks following the birth. Postnatal depression is more severe and requires medical treatment.
1. Trouble bonding with baby
The majority of new parents experience some degree of depression following the birth. If you are depressed for the majority of days and it lasts more than two weeks, you may be suffering from postnatal depression (PND). PND is more severe than the 'baby-blues that many women experience in the weeks after the birth of their baby. It is treatable, and the majority of people recover from it with the support of their family friends, whanau, and family members, as well as professional support services.
It isn't easy to bond with your baby when you are feeling depressed, as your emotions can interfere in the way you interact with your baby. This can cause you to become unresponsive to your baby and they could appear to irritate or frustrate you, especially when they cry out for attention or need comforting. It could also hinder your ability to take care of your baby, making it hard to feed them change them, clean them and dress them.
symptoms of anxiety and depression with PND may lose interest in daily activities such as sleeping or eating and their energy levels decline. They may also withdraw from their family and start to worry regarding their baby's health, or think they're harming their child. Certain people might also experience symptoms of anxiety, like the fear of losing control or panic attacks.
If you're having trouble connecting with your child, talk to a healthcare professional as soon as you can. They can provide advice about how to cope and could refer you to treatment, including medications or psychological therapy. They can tell you whether the depression is normal or not, and also how to improve your condition. If you're experiencing severe depression it is possible to be taken to a community mental health clinic that treats new mothers.
2. Feeling worthless or feeling guilty
Post-natal depression is often characterized by feelings of worthlessness or guilt. People suffering from this disorder tend to blame themselves for the negative events in their lives. This can also be due to past experiences where a person was abused, neglected or made to feel inadequate. This can lead to an insecurity about oneself and low self-confidence, which makes it more difficult to handle daily activities.
Having children is a huge responsibility, and it can be a challenge for new parents. This is why it's crucial to seek assistance if you or someone you know feels this way. This can help reduce the symptoms and make you feel better.
It is crucial to remember that depression and feeling down are not indicators of weakness. It is a medical issue that can be treated and there are a variety of services for mothers who are new. It is important to talk to your GP or midwife, or Well Child Tamariki or a nurse if you think you are suffering from this illness.
Postnatal depression can affect anyone, regardless of age or the number of children. It can also occur during pregnancy (this is referred to as prenatal depression). Encourage anyone who is feeling down to see their GP or a health care professional. Don't be scared to ask for assistance. Most people can recover from PND with the right support and treatment. It can be beneficial to keep in touch with friends and family, as it can keep the person engaged and avoid isolation. This can be especially helpful in cases where the symptoms are more severe or persistent.
3. The loss of interest in the usual activities
Many women suffering from PND lose interest in their hobbies and friends. They may not like spending time with their baby and are unable to make decisions. They are often very tired and sleep isn't easy because they feel they can't relax or fall to sleep. They may also lose appetite and eat less than usual. Sometimes they gain weight and feel ashamed.
If symptoms persist for more than two week or are severe, seek medical attention. The majority of the time, the problem is caused by hormonal changes that happen in the course of pregnancy and after birth. They may also be triggered by other problems like stress in relationships or other life events.
Depression can occur at any age. It is more prevalent in the first year following the birth of a child. It can also affect new fathers and partners. Depression can cause problems for the child, including emotional and behavioural issues.
Depression can be treated with support and therapy. Therapy that involves talking such as cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy can be highly efficient, but it's also common for antidepressants to be prescribed. Certain medications are better suited for certain people than others. It is a matter of trial and error.
It is crucial to seek the support of friends and family members as well as health care professionals. Some mothers with PND withdraw from their partners, and this can strain relationships. After the mother's depression is been treated, many of these relationships have improved. Depression can cause irritability, anxiety, and can also trigger suicidal thoughts.
4. Change in appetite
The emotional and physical stress of having a child can be overwhelming. The baby blues is a term used to describe the emotions of sadness and anxiety that many women experience after having a baby. The feelings of anxiety and sadness are normal, but they should be brief. If they remain present for more than a week this could be a sign of more serious mental health issue such as post natal depression.
The hormone levels that increase during pregnancy, and then decrease dramatically after delivery may contribute to the development of depression. Changes in appetite are also common in this condition. Sleep deprivation or fatigue can make new mothers feel hungry or suffer from reduced appetite.
A lack of appetite can cause problems with weight and nutrition and can affect breastfeeding as it could decrease the amount of milk produced. For these reasons, pregnant women who are not eating enough she should seek help from her doctor (doctor) or a midwife Well Child Tamariki Ora nurse (through Plunket).
If you're assisting an expecting mother or is about to give birth and you observe any of these signs it is important to ask them how they feel. If they are hesitant to speak to you, encourage the woman to make an appointment to see their GP or Plunket Health Visitor. Or, you can contact the PANDA helpline on 1300 726 306. Do not criticize or suggest that she lose weight or suggest that she should eat more. Instead be supportive and encouraging by giving positive feedback.
5. Physical slowing or agitation
Postnatal depression can affect the family as an entire. The person with PND might not be able to care for her baby, and she might be withdrawn from friends and whanau. They may also be worried about the physical condition of her child and be worried that something is wrong with them. This could lead to excessive whakama (shame) and a feeling of not being a good parent.
Women with PND can get assistance from their family members and spouses, as well as other individuals, such as counsellors or professional services. These support services are essential to the recovery process for PND.
PND can affect people who have never suffered from mental distress. It can also affect people who have suffered from depression or other mental illnesses. Postnatal depression isn't an illness that only unlucky mothers suffer from. Even women who have plenty of support and a stable relationship may experience it. It is thought that stress and anxiety can increase the likelihood of developing depression following the birth of an infant.
The main treatment for postnatal depression is psychotherapy (talking therapies), although sometimes medication is prescribed in addition. Combination treatments are usually used. It is crucial to discuss with your GP the pros and cons of each option.
If you are worried about your health it is crucial that you seek professional help. Inform your doctor, midwife or health visitor about the symptoms you are experiencing. They will inquire about your history, do an assessment and conduct an examination of your health. Being honest will enable you to receive the best support and treatment.