Postnatal depression is an increasingly common problem faced by many women. Postnatal depression differs from depression in its timing - that is, it affects women after the birth of their child. Although it is often mistaken for simple 'baby blues', it is already a serious emotional disorder whose symptoms are long-lasting and seriously affect the quality of life of the mother, the baby and the whole family.
How do you recognise postnatal depression?
Postnatal depression is an illness that occurs after the birth of a child. The symptoms that most commonly accompany postnatal depression are:
- Lack of self-confidence as a good parent,
- Difficulty in carrying out daily childcare responsibilities,
- Decreased mood,
- A sense of fear for the child, his health, his development, as well as for himself and the future,
- Lack of interest in existing passions,
- Suicidal thoughts or thoughts of killing the child.
If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, consult a doctor or mental health professional immediately.
How to help a woman with postnatal depression?
The first step is to talk to a trusted person. This could be your mother, a friend or another close person. It is important that the final outcome of this conversation is a referral for professional help. Very often, depressed mothers mask their symptoms for fear of diagnosis or shame. Do not accuse the depressed mother, but together consult a doctor or mental health professional.
Pay attention to your surroundings! Often it is the husband, partner, parents of a woman in crisis or friends who notice that a woman may be depressed after giving birth. If you notice in her:
- Frequent crying,
- Sudden changes in mood,
- Inadequate response to the child's needs,
- Reluctance to care for the child,
- Lack of desire to perform daily duties.
Offer your help and support immediately. Encourage her to speak to a doctor or mental health professional.
What if it's the Baby Blues?
It is worth bearing in mind that many women who have just become mothers may be affected by the disorder "baby blues" or "postnatal sadness". As a rule, this emotional state appears within 10 days after the birth and subsides spontaneously, usually within two weeks. If, on the other hand, it lasts longer or leads to dysfunction in the family, it is important to seek help.
Effects of postnatal depression
When talking about the effects of postnatal depression, they are often referred to in the context of the mother herself. Most commonly mentioned are:
👉 the feeling of a 'lost year' with your child - literally it's about the time of being 'locked up' at home and not getting the most out of it,
👉 The constant turning away of friends and family.
However, not everyone stresses how strongly destructive depression is for child development too! 🤱
The period of the baby's life from 2 to 6 months is crucial - this is when the bond with the mother influences the baby's cognitive and emotional-social processes.
👉Research shows that children of postnatally depressed mothers are emotionally closed off, this is because the child tunes out the mother. An emotionally unavailable mother, causes the child to have trouble building social relationships in later life. Children may be withdrawn and have a lot of anxiety.
👉Woman after postpartum depression is reluctant to have another pregnancy.
👉The effects of a woman's depressed mood in postnatal depression are also felt by all members of the family, i.e. the partner and the other children, which can have a disastrous effect on their development - when suddenly mum no longer takes an interest in them, does not talk to them or support them as before.
👉 Also marital conflict and divorce - are common consequences of postnatal depression.
👉The depressed woman stops appreciating herself for anything, is very critical of herself, and is particularly negative about her role as a mother.
Remember that untreated depression can be disastrous in its consequences. Be vigilant and react early.
Am I at risk of developing postnatal depression?
According to research, some women may have a greater tendency towards postnatal depression. If you are at risk, you can prepare yourself and your role accordingly, even before giving birth. Women who are most at risk are those who:
👉 have previously experienced a depressive episode,
👉 experience conflicts in partnership/marriage,
👉 Are single mothers,
👉 They do not have support from their family,
👉 They were not planning a pregnancy,
👉before pregnancy had a very active lifestyle (physically or professionally),
👉 During pregnancy they experience anxiety and stress,
👉 give birth to a child with a disability
If you are in a risk group - it is a good idea to prepare yourself for your role as a mum already at the planning stage of your pregnancy or while you are pregnant🤰 through parenting schools, infant care instruction, psychological support or your own psychotherapy. 🙌
