Nurture - Pakistan's Pioneer Publication on Early Childhood Development

Postnatal Depression

Postnatal depression (PND) is a depression oriented illness that occurs after having a baby. It is common for women following childbirth to experience a period of 'low' mood. This can range in severity from a mild and normal period of mood disturbance ('baby blues'), through to PND and the most severe and rarest problem (postnatal psychosis).

PND is very common. Up to 85% of the women suffer from ‘Postnatal depression’ and it is considered to be normal in many of the cases. Usually there is unexplained tearfulness. Exhaustion, lethargy, constant desire to sleep, lack of concentration forgetfulness and difficulty sleeping are some of the common symptoms. PND usually develops within the first month following childbirth.

Symptoms of Postnatal Depression

Although there are differences between PND and 'ordinary' depression, there are many similarities:

Feeling 'low', 'miserable' and tearful for no apparent reason.

Being unable to enjoy yourself. This may be particularly prominent in new mothers who feel that they are not enjoying having a new baby in the way they expected to.

Irritability is common. This may be with other children, the new baby and particularly with the partner.

Sleep disturbance is part of looking after a new baby. However in PND there may be additional problems of finding it hard to go to sleep even though you are tired.

Appetite is sometimes affected, with mothers not being interested in food. This can be a particular problem since new mothers need all the energy they can get to look after their babies.

Anxiety frequently occurs in PND. This may take many forms. It may be feeling tense and 'on edge' all the time. In addition mothers may experience 'panic attacks' which are episodes lasting several minutes when they feel as if something catastrophic is about to happen - such as collapsing, having a heart attack or stroke. These are extremely frightening but they get better on their own.

Depression is often accompanied by feelings of being 'worthless' and 'hopeless'. These feelings are common in PND.

5 ways to help yourself overcome Postnatal Depression

Because the symptoms are very similar to those seen in 'ordinary' depression PND is treated in much the same way as ordinary depression.

Try not to feel guilty or inadequate. There is no such thing as a perfect parent – or a perfect child.

Eat healthy and avoid chocolates, sugar and alcohol.

Try meditations and other relaxation techniques.

Get out and about – take the baby for a walk.

Communication is very important between you and your partner during the immediate postnatal period. He will most be able to support you during this time.