Recognising Post Natal Depression Symptoms

Having a baby is a major change in your life. It is important to recognise the warning signs of depression of perinatal anxiety or depression and seek help when you begin to detect them.

Many people experience the 'baby blues' in the first few days following birth. These feelings pass but postnatal depression can be more serious and requires medical treatment.

1. The bonding process with your baby can be difficult

The majority of new parents experience a degree of depression following their birth. If you experience depression on a regular basis for a few days and it lasts more than two weeks, you could be suffering from postnatal Depression (PND). PND is more severe than the 'baby blues' that many women experience during the first week after the birth of their child. But it is very treatable and the majority of recover with the help of family friends, whanau, whanau and professional support services.

It can be difficult to connect with your baby if you're depressed, since your emotions can cause problems with the way you interact. It can cause you to be irritable towards your child, and you could even be annoyed or frustrated by them when they cry or require comforting. It can also affect how you care for your child, making it difficult to feed, change or dress them.

People with PND may lose interest in everyday activities, such as eating or sleeping and their energy levels decline. They may withdraw from their whanau and develop irrational concerns about their baby's health or feel they are harming them. Some people also develop symptoms of anxiety, for example a fear of losing control or panic attacks.

Speak to a healthcare professional if you're having difficulty connecting with your child. They can give guidance on how to deal with the issue and suggest treatment, such as psychotherapy or medication. They can tell you if the depression is normal and suggest ways to get better. If you are experiencing severe depression, your doctor may be able to refer you to a community perinatal mental health team that specialises in treating new mothers.

2. Feeling worthless or guilt

Feeling worthless or guilty is a typical characteristic of post-natal depression. People who suffer from this disorder tend to blame themselves for the negative events that happen to them. This can also be due to past experiences in which someone was neglected, abused or made to feel inadequate. This can cause a person to be self-conscious or lack of confidence, which makes it difficult to complete daily tasks.

It can be challenging for new parents to have children. This is why it's crucial to seek assistance if you or someone you know feels this way. This can help alleviate the symptoms and make you feel better.

It is also important to keep in mind that feeling down and depressed isn't an indication of weakness. It is a medical condition which can be treated and there are numerous support services available to new mothers. 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 happen even during pregnancy (known as antenatal depression disorder). If you or someone you know is struggling you can encourage them to visit their GP or health visitor and don't hesitate to seek help. Most people can recover from PND with the proper support and treatment. Maintaining contact with friends and family members can be beneficial, since this can help to keep the person sane and avoid isolation. This is especially beneficial when the symptoms are more severe or persistent.

3. The loss of interest in the usual activities

Women who suffer from PND tend to lose interest in hobbies and friends. They are often not able to like spending time with their baby and may have difficulty making decisions, like whether or not they should leave the bed. They're usually exhausted and have trouble sleeping because they feel they can't relax or get into a peaceful sleep. They may also lose appetite and eat less. Sometimes, they gain weight and feel embarrassed.

If these symptoms continue for more than two weeks or are extreme it is essential to seek assistance. Most often, the issue is caused by hormone changes that happen in the course of pregnancy and after birth. They may be triggered by stress in a relationship or other life events.

It is possible to suffer from depression at any time. It is more common 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 through support and therapy. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy can be extremely efficient, however it is common for antidepressants be prescribed. Some are better suited to certain individuals than others. It's a matter of trial and trial and.

It is essential to have the support of family members as well as your friends, and health care professionals. Many mothers suffering from PND withdraw from their partners, and this can strain relationships. Many of these relationships will recover when the mother's depression is treated. Depression can lead to a number of other issues, such as anger, suicidal ideas and anxiety.

4. Change in appetite

The emotional and physical turmoil of having a baby can be overwhelming. Many women experience a time of time following the birth that is known as the baby blues. These feelings of anxiety and sadness are normal but should not last long. If they are present for more than a week this could be a sign of a more serious mental health issue, such as post natal depression.

Depressive moods can be triggered by hormone levels that rise during pregnancy, but plummet dramatically after delivery. This condition is also associated with changes in appetite. Lack of sleep or fatigue may cause new mothers to feel hungry or have a decreased appetite.

A lack of appetite can cause problems with nutrition, weight and breastfeeding issues, since it can affect the production of milk. If a new mother isn't eating enough, she should speak to her GP or a midwife (through Plunket) if she feels that they are not eating enough.

If you are supporting an expecting mother or just had a baby and you observe any of these signs of anxiety and depression, it's important to ask them what they feel. If they are hesitant to speak with you, encourage them to schedule an appointment to see their doctor or Plunket Health Visitor. You can also call the PANDA helpline on 1300 726 306. Don't criticize or offer to help her lose weight or suggest she consume more. Instead be supportive and encouraging by offering positive feedback.

5. Physical slowing or the agitation

Postnatal depression early symptoms of depression can affect the entire family. She may be withdrawn from her family and friends and not feel capable of taking care of her child. She might be worried about the physical health of her child and be concerned that there is something wrong with them. This can lead to excessive whakama (shame) and an impression that she is not a good parent.

Women suffering from PND are able to receive support from their family, spouse, and others, including counsellors or professional services. These support services are essential to the process of recovery from PND.

People who have never suffered from mental illness before may develop PND, and those who have experienced depression or another mental illness can experience it after having a child (as as well as during pregnancy). It is a myth that only bad mothers experience postnatal depression. Even women with a stable relationship and lots of support may suffer from it. Stress and anxiety are believed to increase the likelihood of depression symptoms In children following childbirth.

The most effective treatment for postnatal depression is psychological (talking therapies), although sometimes medications are prescribed too. Combination treatments are usually employed. It is important to discuss with your GP the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

It is essential to seek help if you are concerned about how you feel. Inform your doctor or midwife about your symptoms. They will ask about your medical history, complete a questionnaire and perform a physical exam. Being honest will enable you to receive the best support and treatment.