How to recognise postnatal depression

 

Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience, one that can bring up powerful emotions. While many of these emotions are positive, it’s not unusual for new mums and dads to also experience negative or unexpected feelings such as inadequacy, sadness and guilt.

For some new parents, however, the emotional toll of childbirth can be more serious. One in five new mums and 1 in 10 new dads will experience  postnatal depression (sometimes called postpartum depression). Postnatal depression is a more severe or prolonged episode of emotional changes that can include strong depressive mood swings, anxiety, social withdrawal, irritability and loss of enjoyment in usual activities.

It’s important to take postnatal depression seriously and know that support is available.

Symptoms of postnatal depression

Postnatal depression can start slowly or suddenly, and can range from a mild feeling of sadness to severe depression. 

Common symptoms of postnatal depression can include:

• low self-esteem and confidence

• feelings of inadequacy and guilt

• loss of enjoyment of usual activities

• loss of appetite and weight

• sleeping difficulties

• irritability

• tearfulness

• Feeling unable to cope

• suicidal thoughts

• panic attacks

• loss of libido

• fears for baby’s or partner’s safety or wellbeing.

It can be hard to tell the difference between exhaustion and depression, but if you or someone you care about has been experiencing any of these symptoms for two weeks or more, speak to your doctor for support.

Postnatal depression in women

Up to 80% of new mothers will experience ‘baby blues’ in the first couple of weeks after the birth of a new child. Luckily, these feelings usually pass on their own within a day or two.

Postnatal depression is more than this. It’s most common after a woman’s first pregnancy, and usually develops in the first few weeks or months after the birth. Women are more at risk of developing postnatal depression if they’ve suffered from depression before, if they experienced a difficult birth, or if they have a lack of support around them when the baby arrives. But there are other factors, such as a lack of sleep, being overwhelmed, or being stressed by other events in your life.

If you’re at risk, mention it to your family as soon as possible, as well as your doctor or midwife, so you’ve got a team of people looking out for you. Being prepared means you or your loved ones will be quicker to recognise it and seek support if it does happen.

Can men get postnatal depression?

It’s a misconception that postnatal depression only affects women. One in ten men experience postnatal depression, usually between the first trimester and 12 months of their child’s birth.  

Fathers might be at an increased risk of postnatal depression if they:

• are a first-time parent

• are older

• don't have strong or many social connections

• are in poor physical health

• have pre-existing mental health challenges

have a poor relationship with the partner

While women experiencing postnatal depression tend to develop symptoms of sadness, men tend to become irritable and withdraw from those around them. Dads experiencing postnatal depression may therefore find it helpful to open up to friends and family about their experience. If symptoms continue or get worse, speak to your doctor for support.

Treating postnatal depression

Postnatal depression is a real condition that requires support, and isn’t something you need to just ‘snap out of’ or ‘get over’. If you’ve been feeling this way for two weeks or more, make sure you visit your doctor to talk about what you are experiencing. Your doctor will work with you to come up with a treatment plan that might include:

• counselling or psychological treatment

• support groups

• sleep management

• diet, exercise and self-care

• antidepressant medication

How long does postnatal depression last?

Left untreated, postnatal depression can last for several months or even years. That’s why it’s so  important to know the signs and to seek support immediately.

Remember that everyone’s experience of postnatal depression is different, but recognising the symptoms and deciding to seek help are important first steps in your recovery.

How to support someone experiencing depression

If someone you care about is experiencing depression, let them know you’re there. Listen without judgment and encourage them to get support from a doctor or mental health professional. Depression can make daily tasks feel overwhelming, so small acts — like checking in or helping with practical things — can really help. Learn about depression to better understand what they’re facing. And don’t forget your own wellbeing — supporting someone else is easier when you’re also looking after yourself.

Where to get help

If your life or someone else’s is in danger, call 000 immediately. 

If you’re in distress and need help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support. 

For non-emergency support, your GP or regular health practitioner is often the best place to start. They will be able to assess your individual situation and recommend the best next steps for your recovery.   

Remember that help is always available, no matter the situation.