Chet McLerie
Blog entry by Chet McLerie
Recognising Post Natal depression symptoms symptoms of severe depressive episode
A baby is a significant life change. It is essential to recognize the symptoms of perinatal depression or anxiety and seek treatment as soon as you detect these signs.
Many people experience 'babyblues' within the first few weeks following the birth. These feelings subside, but postnatal depression can be more serious and needs medical treatment.
1. It is difficult to bond with baby
Most new parents experience some degree of depression following their birth. If you're feeling depressed most days and lasts more than 2 weeks, you could be suffering from postnatal depression (PND). PND is more serious than the "baby blues" that many people experience during the week after their baby is born. However, it is treatable and the majority of people recover with the help of family, whanau, friends and professional support services.
It can be difficult to bond with your baby if you're depressed, as your emotions can interfere with how you interact with your baby. This can cause you to become unresponsive to your baby and they might seem to irritate or frustrate you, especially when they cry out for attention or require a hug. It could also hinder your ability to care for your baby and make it difficult to feed them change them, clean them and dress them.
People with PND frequently lose interest in normal activities, like sleeping or eating and notice that their energy levels decrease. They may withdraw from their family and friends, and have irrational fears about the health of their baby or think they are harming it. Some people develop anxiety symptoms like panic attacks or a fear of losing control.
If you're having difficulty connecting with your baby, talk to a medical professional immediately. They can give you suggestions on how to deal with the issue and could refer you to treatment, including medications or psychological therapy. They can inform you if your depression is normal or not, and how to recover. If you're suffering from severe depression, your physician may be in a position to refer you to a community perinatal mental health service which specializes in treating newborn mothers.
2. Feeling unworthy and feeling guilty
Post-natal depression is usually associated with feelings of inadequacy or guilt. This is because those who suffer from this disorder tend to blame themselves for the negative events that happen in their lives. This could be due to previous events where a person has been victimized, neglected or made to feel inadequate. This can cause someone to be self-conscious or a lack confidence, which can make it difficult to tackle daily tasks.
It can be challenging for parents who are new to having children. This is why it is important to seek help when you or someone you know feels this way. This can help to reduce the symptoms and help you feel better.
It is also important to remember that feeling down and depressed isn't a sign of weakness. It is a medical condition that can be treated, and there are many support services for new mothers. It is essential to speak to your GP or midwife, or Well Child Tamariki or a nurse if you suspect you suffer from this illness.
Postnatal depression can be a problem for everyone regardless of age or the number of children they have. It can also happen during pregnancy (this is known as antenatal depression). Encourage anyone who feels down to see their GP or a health professional. Don't be afraid to seek assistance. With the proper treatment and support, most people make a full recovery from PND. Keeping in touch with family and friends can be beneficial, as it can help to keep the person sane and help prevent isolation. This is especially helpful if symptoms are persistent or severe.
3. Inattention loss in normal activities
Many women who suffer from PND lose enthusiasm for their interests and friendships. They may not enjoy spending time with their infant and may be unable to make decisions, including the decision of whether or not to get up. They are often very tired, but sleeping is difficult because they feel they can't relax or get to sleep. They may also lose appetite and eat less than usual, sometimes becoming overweight and feeling ashamed of it.
If common symptoms of depression persist for longer than two weeks or are severe it is crucial to seek assistance. The problem is often caused by hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy and post-delivery. They may be triggered by stress in a relationship, or other life events.
Depression can occur at any age. It is more prevalent in the first year following the birth of the birth of a child. It can also affect new fathers and partners. Depression can cause problems for the child, including behavioural and emotional well-being signs difficulties.
Depression can be treated with support and therapy. Therapies that involve talking such as cognitive behavior therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy can be extremely effective. Antidepressants are often prescribed. Some are more suitable for certain people than others, and it is a case of trial and error to discover the best one.
It is essential to have the support of family members, friends as well as family members and health professionals. The relationships can be affected when mothers suffering from PND withdraw and isolate themselves from their partners. After the mother's depression has been treated, many of these relationships have improved. Depression can trigger a range of other issues, such as irritability, suicidal thoughts and anxiety.
4. Change in appetite
The physical and emotional upheaval of having a child can be overwhelming. The baby blues is a term used to describe the emotions of sadness and anxiety that women feel after giving birth. These feelings of anxiety and sadness are normal, but they should be brief. If the feelings persist for longer than a week, it may be an indication of a more severe mental health issue like post-natal depression.
Depression can be caused by hormone levels that rise during pregnancy, but then plummet dramatically after delivery. This condition is also manifested by changes in appetite. New mothers may not feel hungry or have a reduced appetite and this can be caused by fatigue and sleep deprivation.
Inability to eat can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight issues and breastfeeding issues, since it can reduce milk production. This is why if a new mother is not eating enough, she should seek advice from her doctor (doctor) or midwife Well Child Tamariki Ora nurse (through Plunket).
If you've been assisting a pregnant or postpartum woman and notice any of the symptoms above, it is important to talk with them about the way they feel. If they are reluctant to talk to you, encourage them to schedule an appointment with their doctor or Plunket Health Visitor. You can also contact the PANDA helpline on 1300 726 306. Do not be critical or suggest that she lose weight, or suggest she consume more. Encourage and support them by offering positive feedback.
5. Physical agitation or slowing
Postnatal depression can affect a family as in general. She might withdraw from her family and friends and not feel capable of taking care of her child. She may be extremely concerned about the physical health of her child and worry that there is something wrong with them. This can cause excessive guilt and the feeling that you are not a good parent.
Women with PND can get assistance from their family members and spouses, as well as other individuals, such as counsellors or professional services. These supports are crucial in the recovery process for PND.
PND can affect people who haven't suffered from mental illness. It can also affect those who have experienced depression or other mental illnesses. Postnatal depression is not an illness that only unlucky mothers experience. Even women who have stability in their relationships and lots of support may suffer from it. It is believed that anxiety and stress can increase the likelihood of developing depression after the birth of the child.
The most effective treatment for postnatal depression is psychological (talking therapies) however, sometimes medications are prescribed in addition. Combination treatments are usually used. It is essential to discuss with your GP the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment.
It is crucial to seek assistance if you are worried about the way you feel. Talk to your doctor or midwife about your symptoms of teenage depression. They will ask about your medical history, complete an assessment and conduct a health examination. Being honest will allow you to get the best care and treatment.