What Experts Say You Should Know

Recognising Post Natal Depression symptoms of late-life depression

A baby is a major life-changing event. It is important to recognise the symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression and seek treatment immediately you notice them.

Many people suffer from the 'baby blues' during the first few days after birth. These feelings subside, but postnatal depression can be more serious and needs medical treatment.

1. The bonding between your baby and you can be difficult

Most new parents will suffer from depression at least in the initial days following the birth. If you're feeling depressed all the time and lasts for more than 2 weeks, you could be suffering from postnatal depression (PND). PND is more serious than the "baby blues" many suffer from in the first week after the birth of their baby. It is treatable, and most people can recover from it with the support of their family, whanau and friends, and also professional support services.

It can be difficult to bond with your baby when you're feeling depressed since your emotions can cause problems with the way you interact. It can cause you to become apathetic towards your baby, and you may even seem angry or irritable when they cry or need comfort. It could also hinder your ability to care for your baby which makes it difficult to feed them or change them, and also get them dressed.

People suffering from PND might become less interested in everyday activities like eating or sleeping and their energy levels drop. They may withdraw from their family and develop irrational concerns about their baby's health or think they are causing harm to them. Certain people might also experience symptoms of anxiety, for example anxiety about losing control or panic attacks.

If you're having trouble connecting with your child, talk to a doctor as soon as possible. They can offer suggestions on how to deal with the situation and could recommend treatment options like psychological therapy or medication. They can help you determine if the depression is normal and what you can do to get better. If you're experiencing severe depression, you may be taken to a community mental health team that treats new mothers.

2. Feeling unworthy or feeling guilty

Post-natal depression is usually associated with feelings of inadequacy or guilt. This is because people who suffer from this disorder tend to blame themselves for all the negative events that happen in their lives. This can be due to previous events in which a person was victimized, neglected or made to feel inadequate. This can result in a lack of self-esteem and low confidence which makes it more difficult to handle daily activities.

The responsibility of having children is a big responsibility that can be difficult for new parents. It is crucial to seek assistance when you or someone you care about, is experiencing this. This can help to reduce the symptoms of moderate depression and make you feel better.

It is vital to remember that depression and feeling down are not indicators of weakness. It is a medical condition that can be treated and there are many support services available to new mothers. It is essential to speak to your GP, midwife or Well Child Tamariki Ora nurse if you suspect you suffer from this condition.

Postnatal depression can affect anyone regardless of their age or number of children. It can be present even during pregnancy (known as antenatal depressive disorder). If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, encourage them to see their GP or health visitor and don't be afraid seek assistance. The majority of people recover from PND with the right help and treatment. Maintaining contact with family and friends can also be beneficial, as it can help keep the person positive and help prevent isolation. This is especially helpful if symptoms are severe or persistent.

3. The loss of interest in the usual activities

Many women suffering from PND lose interest in their hobbies and social circle. They are often not able to enjoy spending time with their child and may have difficulty making choices, such as the decision of whether or not to get out of bed. They're typically exhausted but find it difficult to sleep because they cannot relax or fall into deep, peaceful sleep. They might also lose their appetite and eat less than normal, and sometimes becoming overweight and feeling ashamed of it.

If symptoms persist for more than two weeks or are extremely severe, you should seek medical care. The problem is often caused by hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy and after delivery. They may be triggered by stress in a relationship, or other life events.

It is possible to have depression at any age. It is more frequent in the first year after having the birth of a child. It can also affect new fathers and partners. Depression can also trigger problems for children, such as behavioural and emotional issues.

Depression can be treated with therapy and support. Therapies that involve talking such as cognitive behavior therapy and acceptance and committed therapy can be extremely efficient. Antidepressants are also frequently prescribed. Certain are better suited for some people than others, and it is a case of trial and error to discover the right one.

It is essential to have the support of your friends and family members as well as health professionals. Relationships can be affected when mothers suffering from PND are unable to communicate and separate themselves from their partners. After the mother's depression is been treated, a lot of these relationships have improved. Depression can trigger irritability and anxiety, and can also trigger suicidal thoughts.

4. Change in appetite

The physical and emotional turmoil 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 giving birth. The feelings of anxiety and sadness are normal, but should be short-lived. If they remain present for more than a week, it may be a sign of a more serious mental health problem such as post-natal depression.

Depressive moods can be triggered by hormone levels that increase during pregnancy, but plummet dramatically after delivery. A change in appetite is also common in this type of condition. The lack identifying early signs of depression sleep or fatigue can make new mothers feel famished or have a decreased appetite.

A lack of appetite could result in problems with weight and nutrition, and can impact breastfeeding, as it can decrease the amount of milk produced. If a mother-to-be is not eating enough, she should consult her GP or midwife (through Plunket) if she feels that they are not eating enough.

If you've been assisting a pregnant or postpartum woman and you notice any of the symptoms listed above it is crucial to discuss with them how they feel. If they're hesitant to speak to you, encourage them to make an appointment with their doctor or Plunket health visitor. You can also call the PANDA Helpline at 1300 726 306 if they are hesitant to talk to you. Don't criticize or offer to help her lose weight, or suggest she eat more. Encourage and support them by offering positive feedback.

5. physical signs of depression agitation or slowing

The symptoms of postpartum depression (official ottosen-connell.mdwrite.net blog) of postnatal depression can affect the whole family. The mother suffering from PND may not feel capable of caring for her baby, and she might withdraw from whanau and friends. She might be worried about the physical health of her child and be concerned that there is something wrong with them. This can cause excessive shame and a feeling that you are not a good parent.

Women suffering from PND are able to receive support from their families or spouse, as well as other people, including counsellors or professional services. These services are essential for the recovery process from PND.

People who have never experienced mental distress before can develop PND, and those who have suffered from depression or another mental illnesses can develop it after having a child (as well as during pregnancy). Postnatal depression isn't a condition that only poor mothers experience. Even women with an established relationship and a lot support can suffer from it. Stress and anxiety are believed to increase the chance of depression following the birth of a child.

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

It is vital that you seek help if concerned about how you feel. Inform your doctor or midwife about the symptoms. They will inquire about your medical history, complete an assessment questionnaire and conduct an examination. Being honest will help you get the best care and treatment.