Post Natal Depression
Author: Dr George John
Post natal illness can range in severity from the very common "baby blues" to the quite rare puerperal psychosis.
The onset of depression comes usually within the first 4-6 weeks following childbirth, but may take up to 6 months to develop fully. Occasionally signs may show quite soon after childbirth.
What are the symptoms:
Symptoms vary from individual to individual and depend on the severity of the illness but the following are quite common:
- Sleep difficulties, even during quiet periods, (notwithstanding normal demands of a new baby)
- Feelings of inadequacy or inability to cope
- Feelings of guilt about not fulfilling the expectations of motherhood
- Inability to feel warmth and bonding towards the baby
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability or marked anxiety about normal, everyday situations
- Hostility towards the perceived shortcomings or a partner or loved ones
- Unexplained tearfulness
The rarer puerperal psychosis is much more severe and may bring on delusions, mood swings, hallucinations, suicidal ideas and sometimes, in severe cases, infanticidal thoughts which can necessitates hospital admission at times.
No mother will experience all of these symptoms but perhaps a number of them in combination.
Why does it occur?
There is no single cause of post natal depression and a number of factors may influence its severity. It may be brought on by the natural biological or hormonal changes in the mother's body, changes in social activities and lifestyle or simply the emotional shock generated by the realisation and practicalities of motherhood.
It can happen to any woman, regardless of social status, financial security or the number of previous children, or indeed even a previous incidence of post natal depression. A past history of smaller illnesses, however, is thought to increase the risk of recurrence.
How is it treated?
It is generally accepted that most forms of post natal depression have a natural life cycle and will still dissipate over time, even without any treatment at all.
Usually, however, mothers will benefit from at least some simple support, in order to minimise any suffering and to speed the recovery process.
Family support: For most women, simply talking about their feelings and sharing experiences provides the relief needed. Close friends and relatives can also help by sharing household chores, ensuring that the mother gets proper rest and a healthy diet.
Medication: The local GP can help by explaining post natal depression further and may prescribe suitable anti-depressant medication, when appropriate.
Counselling: He may also refer on to a Health Visitor or Counsellor who can provide ongoing support and practical help. A Consultant Psychiatrist may also be able to provide more specialised advice for more severe depressions.
Hospital Treatment: Occasionally, if a mother finds she cannot cope at home, a short period of inpatient care in a specialist Mother and Baby ward is the best way to make a swift recovery. A small number of these exist in the NHS and in private hospitals.
Self-help groups: For general support and encouragement, several associations exist for mothers to share their feelings with other mothers and carers.
Simple hints & tips
If you do suffer from post natal depression, there are one or two additional things you can do to help alleviate the symptoms. Even if you are not depressed, the points below may help to reduce the strain of motherhood.
Rest - make sure you get enough rest and take every opportunity even if only for short periods.
Relax - learn some relaxation techniques or continue those you used during pregnancy.
Nourishment - make sure you eat properly and at regular intervals.
Talk to others - share your feelings, whether positive or negative and include your partner, if you can.
Ask for help - don't be afraid to admit if you can't cope. Remember you are not alone - lots of other mothers needs help.
Prepare - it is important that the emotional strains of motherhood are understood and freely discussed by all. Adequate preparation BEFORE the birth is invaluable.
Avoid excessive amounts of intoxicants such as alcohol and caffeine and do not take medication which has not been prescribed by the doctor (eg. sleeping tablets).
