Parents Post Natal Depression

Parents Post Natal Depression

• Childbirth can be both a physical and emotional shock to your system. Labour is not just exhausting but starts a huge change in the body's hormone balance as it begins to readjust to no longer being pregnant.
• More than two thirds of new mothers will have a time of feeling emotionally fragile in the first 10 days after delivery. Often around the third day there are tears and feelings of being unsure. The smallest of things can set off a response. The blues, as they are commonly known, are connected with tiredness, hormonal balancing and physical changes. This is common and normal and will only last a short time. With reassurance and support from family, midwives, the child health nurse or the doctor, these feelings will pass as you begin to work on the busy task ahead.
• For some women it isn't easy to come to terms with the reality of motherhood and the demands a new baby will make.
• Post natal depression is different. It is a serious condition which often affects new mothers in the six months following childbirth. It may continue for months if left untreated. Confusion and depression can overtake the mother. They may find it difficult to respond lovingly to their baby and to cope with the day to day chores. For some mothers problems can develop in relationships with partners.
• Deep depression, misery, anxiety, anger, loss of self esteem, chronic fatigue and lack of motivation are some of the feelings which may happen. No two mothers are alike and often symptoms are not seen by family members and friends. This type of depression is common for five to 10 percent of new mothers.
• Mothers must talk about the problem and recognise it. They need help in the form of counselling. It can also help to involve family and friends but the mother should also have time to herself.
• Seek help early. This is important for the mother, child and family.

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Department for Community Devlp, Australia.

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