Recognising Post Natal Depression Symptoms

A baby is a significant life change. It is essential to recognize the symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression and seek help as soon as you detect these signs of depression in elderly parents.

Many people suffer from the 'baby blues' within the first few days after the birth. These feelings pass but postnatal depression is more serious and needs medical treatment.

1. Trouble bonding with baby

Most new parents will feel depressed at some point after the birth. If you experience depression on a regular basis for a few days and lasts longer than two weeks, you may be suffering from postnatal depression (PND). PND is more severe than the 'baby-blues which many women suffer from the week following the birth of their baby. But it is very treatable and most recover with the support of family members friends, whanau, whanau and professional support services.

It can be difficult to bond with your baby when you're depressed, as your emotions can interfere in the way you interact. This can cause you to become unresponsive to your child and they might seem to frustrate or irritate you, especially when they cry out for attention or require comfort. It can also affect how you take care of your child, making it difficult to feed, change and dress them.

People with PND may lose interest in everyday activities like eating or sleeping and their energy levels decrease. They might become withdrawn from their family and friends and may have irrational concerns about the health of their infant or believe they are causing harm to it. Certain people experience anxiety symptoms like panic attacks or fears of losing their control.

Speak to a healthcare professional if you're having trouble connecting with your child. They can give advice on how to cope with the situation and could recommend treatment options like psychological therapy or medication. They can inform you whether your depression is normal and how to get better. If you're experiencing severe depression it is possible to be directed to a mental health clinic that treats new mothers.

2. Feeling devalued or guilt

Feeling unworthy or guilty is a common symptom of post natal depression. This is because those who suffer from this condition 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, abused or made to feel less than. This can cause someone to have low self-esteem or a lack of confidence which makes it difficult to tackle everyday tasks.

It can be difficult for parents who are new to having children. This is why it is crucial to seek assistance if you or someone you know is feeling this way. This can reduce the symptoms and make you feel better.

It is also important to remember that feeling down and depressed isn't an indication of weakness. It is a medical condition which can be treated and there are a variety of support services for newly-wed mothers. If you suspect that you may have this illness, it is important to speak to your GP or Well Child Tamariki ORA nurse.

Postnatal depression can affect anyone regardless of age or number of children. It can also occur during pregnancy (this is known as prenatal depression). If you or someone you know is experiencing depression you can encourage them to visit their GP or health professional and don't hesitate to ask for assistance. The majority of people recover from PND with the proper support and treatment. Being in contact with family and friends can be helpful, as this can help keep the person feeling positive and help prevent isolation. This can be particularly helpful in cases where the symptoms are more severe or long-lasting.

3. Loss of interest in usual activities

Many women suffering from PND lose interest in their interests and friendships. They often don't like spending time with their baby and may be unable to make choices, such as whether or not they should leave the bed. They're usually exhausted and have trouble sleeping because they are unable to relax or get into a deep sleep. They might also lose their appetite and eat less than normal, and sometimes becoming overweight and feeling ashamed of it.

If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks, or are extreme it is essential to seek medical attention. The cause is often by hormonal changes that happen during pregnancy and after delivery. They may be triggered by stress in relationships, or other life events.

It is possible to experience depression at any age. It is more common during the first year following childbirth. It can also affect new fathers and partners. Depression can cause problems for children, which can include emotional and behavioral issues.

Depression can be treated with therapy and support. Therapy that involves talking such as cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy can be very effective, but it is also normal for antidepressants to be prescribed. Some are better suited to certain people than others. It's something that is determined by trial and error.

It is important to get the support of friends and family members as well as health professionals. Some mothers with PND withdraw from their partners, which can strain relationships. Many of these relationships will recover after the mother's depression has been treated. Depression can trigger a variety of other problems including anger, suicidal ideas and anxiety.

4. Change in appetite

The emotional and physical symptoms of depression turmoil of having a child can be overwhelming. The baby blues is a term used to describe the feelings of anxiety and sadness that many women experience after having a baby. These feelings of anxiety and sadness are normal, but they shouldn't last for long. If they continue to be present for more than a week this could be a sign of a more serious mental health warning signs health issue, such as post natal depression.

The hormone levels that increase during pregnancy, and then decrease dramatically after delivery may contribute to the development of depression. A change in appetite is also common in this condition. Lack of sleep or fatigue may cause new mothers to feel famished or have a diminished appetite.

A lack of appetite can cause problems with nutrition, weight and breastfeeding issues, as it can affect the production of milk. If a mother-to-be is not eating enough, she should consult her doctor or midwife (through Plunket) if she thinks that she is not eating enough.

If you've been assisting a pregnant or postpartum woman and you notice any of the Depressive symptoms checklist above it is crucial to talk to them about the way they feel. If they are reluctant to speak with you, encourage the woman to make an appointment with their doctor or Plunket Health Visitor. Or, you can contact the PANDA helpline on 1300 726 306. Do not criticize or offer to help her lose weight or suggest she eat more. Encourage and encourage them by offering positive feedback.

5. Physical slowing or physical agitation

Postnatal depression can affect a family as an entire. She might withdraw from her family and friends, and not feel able to care for her child. She may be extremely concerned about the physical health of her child, and may worry that something is wrong with them. This can cause excessive guilt and the feeling that you are not a good parent.

Women with PND have access to support from their family and spouses, as well as others, including counsellors and professional services. These support services are essential to the process of recovery from PND.

People who have not experienced mental distress before can develop PND or PND, and people who have suffered from depression or another mental illness may experience it after having a child (as as well as during pregnancy). Postnatal depression is not a condition that only poor mothers experience. Even women who have stability in their relationships and lots of support may be affected. Stress and anxiety are believed to increase the risk of depression after childbirth.

Although medications are sometimes prescribed, the main treatment for postnatal depression is psychological (talking therapy). A combination of treatments is typically employed and it is essential to consult with your GP about the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

If you are concerned about how you feel it is crucial to seek professional assistance. Tell your GP or midwife about your symptoms. They will ask you about your history, fill out a questionnaire and carry out an examination of your health. It is important to be truthful as it will help them provide you the best care and assistance.