Recognising Post Natal Depression Symptoms
A baby is a significant life change. It is important to recognise the symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression and seek help as soon as you begin to notice these signs.
Many people experience the "baby blues' within the first few days following the birth. The feelings fade, but postnatal depression is more severe and needs medical treatment.
1. The bonding process with your baby can be a challenge.
The majority of new parents experience some level of depression following the birth. If you experience depression on a regular basis for a few days, and lasts for more than two weeks, you could be suffering from postnatal Depression (PND). PND is more severe than the 'baby-blues that many women experience the week following the birth of their baby. It is treatable, and most people recover from it with the support of their family, whanau and friends, and also professional support services.
If you are depressed, it can be difficult to bond and communicate with your child. Your emotions can affect your interactions. This can make you indifferent to your baby and they may seem to frustrate or irritate you, especially when they cry out for attention or require comfort. It can also affect how you look after your child, making it difficult to feed, change or dress them.
People suffering from PND frequently lose interest in normal activities like sleeping or eating and experience energy levels drop. They may be withdrawn from their family and start to worry regarding their baby's health, or feel they are causing harm to them. Some people develop anxiety symptoms such as panic attacks or fears of losing their control.
Speak with a healthcare professional if you're having difficulty connecting with your child. They can provide guidance on how to deal with the issue and refer you to treatment that includes psychotherapy or medication. They can help you determine whether the depression is normal and suggest ways to improve. If you're experiencing severe depression and are in need of help, you can be referred to a community mental health clinic that treats new mothers.
2. Feeling unworthy and guilty
Feeling worthless or guilty is a typical symptom of post natal depression. This is because people who are experiencing this condition tend to blame themselves for all the negative events that happen in their life. It could be due to previous experiences in which someone was abused, neglected or made to feel inferior. This can lead to an insecurity about oneself and low self-confidence, which makes it harder to deal with daily activities.
It can be difficult for new parents to have children. It is crucial to seek help when you, or someone you care about, is experiencing this. This can help reduce the symptoms and make you feel better.
It is vital to keep in mind that feeling depressed and depressed are not indications of weakness. It is a medical condition that can be treated and there are numerous support services available to new mothers. If you suspect you have this illness, it is important to speak to your GP or Well Child Tamariki ORA nurse.
Postnatal depression can be a problem for anyone, regardless of age or number of children they have. It can even occur during pregnancy (this is known as antenatal depression). If you or someone you know is experiencing depression and depressed, encourage them to visit their GP or health care professional and don't be afraid to seek assistance. With the right treatment and support, most people make a full recovery from PND. It is helpful to keep in touch with family and friends as it can keep the person motivated and prevent isolation. This can be particularly helpful if the symptoms are more severe or persistent.
3. Interest in normal activities
Women suffering from PND often lose interest in hobbies and friends. They often don't enjoy spending time with their infant and may have difficulty making decisions, including whether or not they should get out of bed. They're usually exhausted but struggle to fall asleep because they are unable to relax or get into deep, peaceful sleep. They may also lose appetite and eat much less than normal, and sometimes becoming overweight and feeling ashamed of it.
If the symptoms last for more than 2 weeks or are severe, you should seek medical care. The majority of the time, the problem is caused by hormonal changes that occur in the course of pregnancy and after birth. They can also be caused by other problems like stress in a relationship or other life events.
Depression can strike at any time. It is more prevalent in the first year following childbirth. It can affect new and existing partners as well as fathers. Depression can also cause issues for children, such as emotional and behavioral issues.
Depression can be treated through therapy and support. Therapies that involve talking such as cognitive behavior therapy and acceptance and committed therapy are extremely efficient. Antidepressants are also frequently prescribed. Certain are more suited to certain individuals than others. It is something that is determined by trial and trial and.
It is essential to have the support of your friends and family members as well as health care professionals. The relationships can be affected when mothers suffering from PND are unable to communicate and separate themselves from their loved ones. After the mother's depression is been treated, a large number of these relationships have recovered. Depression can cause irritability and anxiety, and can also trigger suicidal thoughts.
4. Change in appetite
The physical and emotional upheaval of having a baby can be overwhelming. The baby blues is a term used to describe the feelings of anxiety and sadness that women feel after giving birth. The feelings of anxiety and sadness are normal, however they should be brief. If they continue to be present for more than a week this could be a sign of more serious mental health issue such as post natal depression.
Depressive moods can be caused by hormone levels that rise during pregnancy, only to drop dramatically after birth. This condition is also manifested by a change in appetite. New mothers may not feel hungry or experience a reduced appetite and can be made worse by fatigue and sleep deprivation.
Inability to eat can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight issues and breastfeeding issues, as it can affect the production of milk. This is why when a mother-to-be is not eating enough she is advised to seek assistance from her doctor (doctor) or a midwife Well Child Tamariki Ora nurse (through Plunket).
If you are supporting a woman who is pregnant or is about to give birth and you notice any of these signs it's crucial to ask them how they are feeling. If they are reluctant to speak with you, encourage them to make an appointment with their GP or Plunket health visitor. You can also call the PANDA Helpline at 1300 726 306 if they are reluctant to speak with you. Do not be critical or suggest that she lose weight, or suggest that she take in more food. Instead be supportive and encouraging by offering positive feedback.
5. Physical agitation or slowing
Postnatal depression can affect a family as in general. She might withdraw from her family and friends, and not feel capable of caring for her infant. She may be extremely concerned about the physical health of her child and worry that something is wrong with them. This can lead to excessive whakama (shame) and an impression that she is not a good parent.
Women suffering from PND typically have access to family, spousal, and support persons, such as counsellors and other professional services. These services are essential in the recovery from PND.
PND can be a problem for people who haven't suffered from mental distress. It can also affect those who have suffered from depression or other mental illnesses. It is an untruth that only bad mothers suffer from postnatal depression. Even women with plenty of support and a stable relationship may suffer from it. Stress and anxiety are believed to increase the risk of depression after birth.
Although symptoms of anxiety and depression are sometimes prescribed, the main treatment for postnatal depressive disorder is psychological (talking therapy). Combination therapies are typically used. It is crucial to discuss with your GP the pros and cons of each option.
It is vital that you seek help if you are worried about the way you're feeling. Tell your GP or midwife about the symptoms. They will ask about your medical history, complete an assessment questionnaire and conduct a physical examination. It is essential to be truthful as it will help them give you the best care and support.