Recognising Post Natal Depression Symptoms

The birth of a child is a major life change. It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression and seek assistance as soon as you notice these Signs Of Depression In Teens.

(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Royal_College_of_Psychiatrists_logo.png)Many people experience the ”baby blues' during the first few days following birth. These feelings pass but postnatal depression can be more serious and requires medical treatment.

1. It is difficult to bond with baby

The majority of new parents experience some degree of depression following the birth. If you feel depressed most 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 child. It is treatable and most people can recover from it with the support of their family, whanau and friends, and also professional support services.

It isn't easy to bond with your baby when you're feeling depressed because your feelings can interfere with how you interact. This can make you indifferent to your baby, and they might seem to frustrate or irritate you especially when they cry out for attention or need comforting. It can also impact your ability to care for your baby and make it difficult to feed them change them, clean them and dress them.

People with PND might lose interest in everyday activities like sleeping or eating and their energy levels will decline. They may also withdraw from their family and develop irrational concerns regarding their baby's health, or think they are causing harm to them. Certain people experience anxiety symptoms like panic attacks or fears of losing control.

Talk to a medical professional if you're having trouble connecting with your child. They can give you suggestions on how to deal with the issue and could refer you to treatment, which could include psychotherapy or medication. They will be able to determine if the depression is normal or not, and what you can do to improve your condition. If you are experiencing severe depression, your doctor might be capable of referring you to a community perinatal mental health team that specializes in treating new mothers.

2. Feeling devalued and feeling guilty

Post-natal depression is typically characterized by feelings of worthlessness or guilt. This is because people who are experiencing this condition tend to blame themselves for all the negative things that occur in their lives. This can be due to past events where someone has been victimized, abused or made to feel inadequate. This can cause low self-esteem and low confidence which makes it more difficult to handle daily activities.

Being a parent is a major responsibility, and it can be a challenge for parents who are new. It is crucial to seek help if you, or someone you care for, is experiencing this. This can help alleviate the symptoms and help you feel better.

It is important to remember, too, that feeling depressed and depressed are not signs of weakness. It is a medical condition that can be treated and there are many services available for new mothers. If you suspect this illness, it is important to speak to your GP or Well Child Tamariki ORA nurse.

Postnatal depression can affect anyone regardless of their age or the number of children. It can happen even during pregnancy (known as antenatal depressive disorder). If you or someone you know is feeling down you can encourage them to visit their GP or health visitor and don't hesitate to seek help. Most people recover from PND with the right support and treatment. Maintaining contact with family and friends can be beneficial, as it can help to keep the person feeling positive and prevent isolation. This is especially helpful if symptoms of severe depressive episode are persistent or severe.

3. Loss of interest in usual activities

Many women who suffer from PND lose interest in their hobbies and social circle. They may not like spending time with their child and may be unable to make decisions, like whether or not they should get out of bed. They're typically exhausted but have a difficult time getting to fall asleep as they are unable relax or get into a deep, restful sleep. They might also feel less hungry and eat less food than normal. Sometimes they lose weight and feel embarrassed.

If the symptoms last for more than 2 weeks or are severe, seek medical assistance. Often the problem is caused by hormonal changes that happen during pregnancy and post-birth. They may also be triggered by other problems like stress in relationships or other life events.

It is possible to suffer from depression at any age. It is more common during the first year following childbirth. It can also affect partners and new fathers. Depression can also cause problems for children, such as behavioural and emotional issues.

Depression can be treated with therapy and support. Therapies that involve talking, such as cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy can be extremely efficient, however it is common for antidepressants be prescribed. Some are better suited to certain people than others. It is something that is determined by trial and error.

It is essential to have the support of family members, friends as well as family members and health care professionals. Some mothers with PND are unable to be with their partners, and this can put a strain on relationships. After the mother's depression has been treated, a lot of these relationships have improved. Depression can trigger a number of other issues, such as anger, suicidal ideas and anxiety.

4. Change in appetite

The emotional and physical turmoil of having a child can be overwhelming. Many women experience a period of time after birth that is referred to as the baby blues. These feelings behavioral indicators of depression anxiety and sadness are normal but should not last long. If these feelings persist for more than a week, it may be an indication of a more serious mental health issue, such as post-natal depression.

Depression can be caused by hormone levels that increase during pregnancy, but plunge dramatically following the birth. This condition is also associated with a change in appetite. Lack of sleep or fatigue may cause new mothers to feel hungry or have a decreased appetite.

Lack of appetite can cause nutritional deficiencies, weight issues and breastfeeding issues, since it can decrease milk production. This is why when a mother-to-be is not eating enough, she is advised to seek assistance from her GP (doctor) or a midwife Well Child Tamariki Ora nurse (through Plunket).

If you are supporting women who are pregnant or has just given birth and you observe any of these signs of severe depression it's crucial to ask them how they feel. If they are reluctant to speak to you and are hesitant to talk to you, encourage them to schedule an appointment with their GP or Plunket health visitor. You can also call the PANDA Helpline at 1300 726 306 if you aren't willing to speak to you. Do not criticize or offer to help her lose weight or suggest that she take in more food. Encourage and support them by giving positive feedback.

5. Physical agitation or slowing

Postnatal depression can affect a family as an entire. The sufferer of PND may not be capable of taking care of her child and may withdraw from her whanau and social circle. She could also be concerned with the physical health of her child and be worried that something is seriously wrong. This could lead to a sense of guilt and the feeling that you are not a good parent.

Women suffering from PND have access to support from their family, spouse, and other people, including professional services or counsellors. These services are crucial to the recovery process from PND.

PND can affect people who have never suffered from mental stress. It can also affect people who have experienced depression or other mental illnesses. Postnatal depression isn't an illness that only unlucky mothers experience. Even women who have lots of support and a stable relationship can suffer from it. Stress and anxiety are believed to increase the risk of depression after the birth of a child.

Although medications are sometimes prescribed, the primary treatment for postnatal depression is psychological symptoms of depression (talking therapy). A combination of treatments is typically used and it is important to talk to your GP about the pros and cons of different options.

It is essential to seek help if concerned about how you feel. Talk to your doctor or midwife, or health professional about the symptoms. They will ask about your history, fill out a questionnaire and carry out an examination for health. Being honest will allow you to get the best care and treatment.