At the end of 2015, the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) launched their #beyondthebabyblues campaign, to encourage women to talk openly about feelings of depression following childbirth. But how can mothers tell the difference between baby blues and full-blown postnatal depression (PND)?
• “Baby blues” kick in soon after the birth, around three to ten days in. They are linked to the huge fluctuations in hormones taking place. A new mother may become very tearful and emotional, but the key characteristic is: it’s short-lived.
• Actual depression lasts much longer. It might cause loss of appetite, constant hopelessness, extreme tearfulness, and lethargy. A depressed mother may feel detached from her child and the rest of her family.
If you think you or someone you are close to may have PND (or any form of perinatal mental illness, which can include anxiety and trauma):
• Consult a GP in the first instance. A good GP will ask beyond the standard questions and probe to see how you are really feeling. It is worth taking a partner or friend with you for support.
• If you find your GP unsympathetic, try a different doctor, if that is an option, or you can go through your Health Visitor. If you are still under the care of your midwife, you can talk to them.
If a GP diagnoses PND, they should talk you through treatment options, including:
• Anti-depressants. Not a cure-all, but undoubtedly effective for many. There are types which are safe during breastfeeding, and treatment can be relatively short-term, if that is what suits you.
• Therapy. As a new mother, you should be prioritised for specialist help on the NHS. Some women find counselling helpful, in a group or one to one. In some areas a crèche is provided to allow women to talk freely. Others find Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) highly effective.
• If the depression is severe, it’s possible you’ll be referred for specialist help from a mental health service. At its most severe, PND can necessitate residential treatment. Best practice is to keep the baby and mother together, if at all possible.
There are other steps you can take to aid recovery, including mindfulness, changes to diet, and exercise. But you also need support:
• Ask friends and family for help. Take any offers to cook – you need to eat regular, nutritious meals. As far as you are comfortable, tell people – they can’ t help if they don’t know what is going on.
• Organisations offering support include The Association for Postnatal Illness (APNI), PANDAS and local charities such as Bluebell and The Smile Group.
• It’s worth contacting your local Children’s Centre, to find out about free baby groups, and the NCT, who run new mum groups. Any parent is prone to feelings of guilt, which is heightened if you have PND, but remember: this is not your fault, it does not mean you love your baby any less. PND can affect anyone, it is an illness like any other – and you can get better.
Published by Free Association Books, Fine (Not Fine): Perspectives and Experiences of Postnatal Depression