Post-Natal Depression
There has been a lot of interest and discussion regarding post-natal depression recently due to the publication of new research. Post-natal depression can be triggered of by difficult labour, unplanned caesarean, impaired relationship with baby and partner and disappointment surrounding child birth or if the Mother is going through other life experiences which make it harder for her to cope e.g. death in the family or long-term illness.
According to, The Association of Post-Natal Illness, as many as 10% of recently delivered women develops post-natal depression. Post-natal depression can include depression, anxiety, panic, tension, lack of concentration, sleeping difficulties and isolation. Often women feel ashamed or guilty for not being able to ‘cope’ and may not seek out help because of this. However, a study found that patients receiving psychological support led to a reduction in depressive symptoms. Mothers displaying depressive symptoms at six weeks were 40% less likely to have those six months after the birth if they received psychological support.
This shows that it is beneficial for mothers to identify or be identified with having post-natal depression and then have the appropriate level of support available to them.
Step approach for managing post-natal depression:
- For those who are suffering from isolation, knowledge of support groups may benefit. Netmums is an internet based local network for Mums (and Dads) offering a wealth of local and national information such as Mum and Toddler groups and has chat rooms.
- For those who would benefit from practical help and emotional support Home-Start could help.
- For those who are in need of psychological support counselling or psychotherapy may be the best way forward to reduce the symptoms of post-natal depression.