THE "BABY BLUES" OR POST-NATAL DEPRESSION?
It is not uncommon for mothers to feel somewhat "down" for a few
days following the birth of their child. A combination of hormones, a natural
feeling of anti-climax following the excitement of birth
and several nights of
sleep deprivation are a sure-fire mix for the blues. For most women this will
pass naturally.
Some women however, will experience a period of depression that is more
severe. Sometimes it comes on gradually, sometimes suddenly. It may last for
days, or weeks, or months. The severity can range from a general feeling of
sadness or apathy to feelings of worthlessness and thoughts of suicide. The
longer it lasts, the more it is likely to affect Mums and their families, so it
is best to seek help and support as early as possible if you think that one of
these Mums might be you.
There are several factors that can contribute to post natal
depression: including social, biological, psychological, and emotional. The
combination of these factors will be different for each woman. Social factors
include isolation and lack of practical and emotional support. Biological
factors include hormonal fluctuations and alterations in the brain chemistry
that control our moods. Psychological factors include the belief systems and
frames of reference through which we view our worlds, the effect of unmet
expectations of parenthood and our own self-image. Emotional factors include how
we manage the many and varied feelings that can accompany new motherhood - the
shock of childbirth, the fear of losing control, the anxiety of not coping or the
feelings of being overwhelmed.
Just as there is no single cause, there is no "one size
fits all" treatment: PND should therefore be assessed and treated on
different levels. We can use a number of resources when seeking treatment: our
GP, early childhood nurse, information from books, magazine articles or the
internet. Self-education is important so we can be informed and decide
what treatment is right for us. We can also seek counselling to work through psychological
and emotional issues, support groups to alleviate isolation and loneliness, and
also the advice of a trusted doctor. There is plenty of support out there -
sometimes we just need to give ourselves permission to ask for it.
A good place to start is the many wonderful, loving and
supportive organisations out there who are just waiting to help. Refer to the
linds below or the Community Support page for more information. And in the mean time we send you lots
and lots and lots of love...
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RESOURCES:
Web Sites:
www.stjohnofgod.org.au/donamaria.htm
Dona Maria is a Sydney based organisation which offers counselling and a
Helpline for women suffering from PND and post-natal psychosis
www.betterhealthchannel.com.au
has a useful article under "Post Natal Depression"
PANDA is a Victorian organisation supporting women and
families with Post and Ante Natal Depression - www.panda.org.au/
http://pndmum.blogspot.com
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