How to Spot the Signs of Post Natal Depression

As many as 1 in 10 mothers suffer from post natal depression. I'm not talking about the baby blues, which can leaving you feeling a little low for a few days but soon wears off. I'm talking about a mother feeling consistently down over a period lasting much longer than a week.

Our first son is now 2 and a half years old. The time has flown by. But for most of that time my wife has been suffering with post natal depression. She is only really beginning to get better now. It has been a long road to recovery, but I want to give others hope that it can be done.

One of the common triggers for post natal depression can be a traumatic birth experience. Example of this might be an emergency caesarian, a long labour, large amount of blood loss. Giving birth can be exhausting which can be mentally and emotionally draining. This can leave a new mother feeling vulnerable.

There is a commonly held belief that a mother will instantly bond with her newborn baby when it is first given to her and that magic skin on skin contact occurs. However, this places a lot of expectation on a new mother and if she doesn't feel that bond straight away, this can easily lead very quickly to a feeling of failure as a mother.

Once a new mother has returned from hospital, a routine is normally established around the new baby's sleep and feeding patterns. This can quickly become monotonous for a mother whoo has not yet bonded well with her baby or overcome the baby blues.

By the time the father has returned to work, for a mother with postnatal depression, this can lead to feelings of loneliness and monotony. There are signs that would indicate possible post natal depression:

• low mood
• anxiety
• feeling unloved as a mother
• lack of interest in sex
• feeling helpless
• not making eye contact
• feeling like you're a bad mother

If either you or your partner suspect that the mother has post natal depression, then it is important to ask for help as soon as possible. Sometimes this help can come from family who may be able to help out. Alternatively, this can come from friends. However, it is also important to get medical help. Seeking the advice of a medical professional, such as a doctor, nurse, midwife can all be helpful and they may be able to put you in touch with some form of therapy to start you on the road to recovery. There are often support groups available for mothers suffering with post natal depression. Don't suffer in silence, get some help, your family all need it.

The most important thing after recognising the symptoms is to get help fast. A number of organisations can help here and a simple internet search can be a good starting point.

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