Treating postnatal depression

What do to if you think you have postnatal depression

The most important thing to do is admit that you are struggling and need a little help. PND is not uncommon and every GP, midwife or health professional will have seen other mums before you with the same problems.

As Clare Delpech of APNI explains, "Early detection and treatment make a big difference to postnatal depression and helps to prevent women suffering unnecessarily". Health professionals are there to help you and will not judge you, or label you as a bad mother.

Mandy Charteris, a spokesperson for charity PNI adds "The vast majority of women suffering from this illness are the most wonderful mothers who love their babies to the point of laying their lives down for them".

"This is especially sad because if perinatal illness is recognised in the early stages it can be controlled and the mother can have a complete recovery. Many women have described feelings of loss and bereavement that they have missed the first precious months of their babies' lives due to this illness and the ignorance surrounding it".

It's important that you don't bottle your feelings up. Talk to your partner, friends, parents or a health professional about what you are feeling. Accept any offers of help and don't feel bad about needing them. Having a baby is probably the most life-changing experience you'll ever go through, and it's natural to need the input of others to make things easier.

Family GP Lowri Kew says: 'Having a baby is an emotional time and often the emotions are mixed. Postnatal depression is a depression occurring within the 12 months following a delivery. Often the symptoms start in the first few months.

"The severity varies. Most mothers with PND cope really well, are great mothers and with help, support and sometimes treatment are soon enjoying life and their beautiful baby. The first year rushes by and you don't get it back, so if you're feeling persistently down, get some help and support; it will get better!"

Ensure you get as much sleep as you can. Take up offers of babysitting so that you can get some well-deserved rest, and make sure you get some "me" time so you can feel like a woman again, not just a mother. Don't worry about spending a little time away from your baby: a healthy, happier, more-relaxed you will make for a more content baby.

Also, make sure that you're eating a balanced diet to give yourself more energy to look after your baby, and try to take some regular gentle exercise such as a stroll with the pram.

Treating postnatal depression

PND is treated in a similar way to ordinary depression. Talking about the problem with someone who is trained and experienced can be a massive help. Speak to your GP or health visitor for more information on counselling.

You may also be prescribed antidepressants, which can help some people get through an initial difficult period. Remember to tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, as some drugs can get into your breastmilk, and you'll be prescribed one that is safe for you. Clare reassures that anti-depressant medication is not addictive and can be very effective.

If you're interested in trying complementary approach, ask your GP whether reflexology or homeopathy could be effective for you.