Understanding Postpartum Depression Through Personal Experience

Introduction

What is postpartum depression or postnatal depression?

Postpartum depression or postnatal depression usually occurs two to eight weeks after giving birth but can happen up to a year after the baby is born. One of the important things about postpartum depression is it's not just feeling low in mood/sad. Feelings of intense anxiety are also a common feature of postpartum depression.

Some symptoms of postpartum depression to look out for include:

• feeling overwhelmed,

• persistent crying,

• lack of bonding with your baby and

• doubting your ability to care for yourself and your baby.

While all parents worry about their kids ,but those experiencing postpartum depression are so worried that it impedes their ability to enjoy their baby and their life. Post natal depression can make it so hard to care for yourself and your baby too. It is important for everyone to understand that this is not just feeling sad or crying . It can be feeling almost paralysed by fear and anxiety about something bad potentially happening to your child.

The Journey Begins

 Maria had her first daughter when she was 19. She felt sad in the first few days of having her daughter and was very weepy. She assumed that this was the ‘Baby blues and would resolve on its own without treatment. Over weeks & months, this continued to be a problem for her. Nobody around her ever asked why she was weepy. She would go to baby clinics and the nurse would ask her to put the baby on the scale and also examined the baby . Strangely, the midwife never asked her anything about how she was feeling emotionally. Then, lack of mental health awareness made it difficult for her to talk about how she was feeling . She would carry on with all daily chores including looking after her baby despite sometimes feeling overwhelmed and weepy . She went for reviews at 6 weeks through 24 weeks and still suffered in silence lest she would be labelled as incapable of looking after her baby possibly because of her age.

Struggling in Silence

Maria did not feel supported by her partner, her family or professionals. The self-stigma she felt that she was not a good enough mom and was failing her daughter seemed to be reinforced by those around her. In numerous visits she had with health professionals, nobody asked how she was feeling. They seemed to focus on the physical health of both her baby and herself. As a new parent Maria thought that this was how all new mothers should feel after giving birth and would resolve on its own,

The Path to Recovery

Maria should have not felt alone as there is help depending on where you live. These are some of the strategies to cope with postpartum depression:

• Professional Help: Consult a healthcare provider, such as a GP, psychiatrist, or psychologist. They can offer therapy, counselling, and medication if necessary.

• Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding. Many organizations offer support groups for parents experiencing PND.

• Family and Friends: Reach out to loved ones for support. Sharing your feelings and experiences with trusted individuals can be very helpful.

• Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep. Taking time for yourself is important.

• Helplines: Many countries have helplines that offer support and advice for individuals experiencing postpartum depression. These can be a valuable resource for immediate help.

Moving Forward

From Maria's story we need to:

•  Listen. Be supportive. Ask how people are feeling.

• Don’t judge people. Remember you should not put your own personal beliefs before your clients/patients/service users.

• Think about what you are saying, could what you are saying be taken offensively? Remember your nonverbal communication, 55% of communication is non-verbal.

• Encourage social activities, and help people find local groups which may be suitable/helpful for the

Conclusion

Postnatal depression symptoms are similar to the symptoms of depression. They include:

• Feeling sad or low

• Being unable to enjoy things that normally bring you pleasure

• Tiredness or loss of energy

• Poor concentration or attention span

• Low self-esteem and self-confidence

• Disturbed sleep, even when your baby is asleep

• Changes in appetite