Having a baby can be happy and joyous experience, but not all new mums feel elated afterwards. That’s because 10% to 15% of women are affected by postnatal depression.

 

Many new mums experience what’s commonly called the ‘baby blues’ after they’ve had a baby, often due to the enormous strain and effort of actually giving birth. Over half of all new mums have the ‘baby blues’ between three and 10 days after birth. Feeling a bit low and drained afterwards is quite normal, but this isn’t postnatal depression (although postnatal depression can arise out of an extended experience of the ‘baby blues’).

 

In contrast, full-blown postnatal depression occurs during the first few weeks or first month following the birth and is characterised by symptoms similar to those suffering from depression. The symptoms of postnatal depression including feeling very low, upset for no reason, tearful, irritable, anxious, on edge and very miserable. Even though women should be enjoying their new baby, they feel like they can’t enjoy anything. They may experience difficulties sleeping, have a complete lack of energy and feel tired all the time. Appetite can be affected too, either as an inability to eat or enjoy food, or as eating too much.

 

New mums suffering from postnatal depression can have a lot of negative feelings, both about themselves and their ability as a parent, and about their baby. They may worry that they may harm themselves or their baby, they may blame themselves for feeling down, or worry endlessly about the health of their baby. Due to this, it can be very difficult for mums with postnatal depression to enjoy the early days with their new baby.

 

 

Not all women are affected by postnatal depression and the exact reason for its cause is unknown. However, experts say there are a variety of factors involved. It may occur, for example, due to the hormonal changes that occur after a woman gives birth. It may also be linked to the stress of looking after a new baby and some people may be more susceptible due to the interruptions to sleep that occur. However, it is known that postnatal depression is more likely to occur in certain groups of people. These include:

 

 

Treatment for postnatal depression is very similar to that for other forms of depression. In some cases it may get better of its own accord, but in other situations, mums may need treatment. Depending on the severity and length of occurrence, antidepressants may be prescribed, although if a mum is breastfeeding they could get into breast milk. Talking therapies, such as talking to a health visitor, counsellor of friend may be recommended and it’s helpful to get extra support and assistance with looking after the baby.

 

 

In addition to formal treatment, there are also self-help strategies you can use or do to help someone with postnatal depression. To ease the stress and tiredness, accept help whenever you can and reduce any other commitments you may have. Sleep is vital to help you get through each day, so try and take naps whenever you can. A supportive family or network of friends becomes crucial to help get through it and don’t forget that your partner can, and should, be involved in caring for your baby too.

 

Above all, if you’re suffering from postnatal depression, remember that it isn’t your fault. You’ve not done anything wrong, you’re not a bad mum and it isn’t your fault. Postnatal depression is a recognised illness and, through proper support and treatment, you’ll get through it.

 

Rachel Newcombe