Dundee Association for Mental Health

Many woman find they go through a low patch after they give birth, this is often referred to as ‘Baby Blues’ and often only lasts for a few days.  For others, having a baby has a serious affect on them, this is known as Postnatal Depression (PND). 

Postnatal Depression can occur straight after the baby is born, or months later.  It can start very suddenly or slowly take hold.  Woman of all ages and backgrounds can be affected: both first time mothers and those with other children. 

It is also possible for woman to feel fine with their first child but become depressed with the next and the chances of developing postnatal depression are higher if a woman has had postnatal depression before.

If PND is left untreated one third of woman will have symptoms one year later.

Many woman who suffer from postnatal depression recover naturally after a few weeks, but a small number of women may need more focussed help, perhaps from their family and friends, doctor or health visitor, while a small number may need antidepressants.  Around one or two per cent of postnatal depression sufferers might need to see a psychiatrist.

Each woman is affected in her own particular way, some symptoms can include feeling as if a black cloud lingering over them, feeling low, unhappy and tearful, being irritable with your partner, children and family.  You may feel exhausted and have problems sleeping, feeling anxious, a feeling of guilt and you may even have problems concentrating on the simplest of tasks and your appetite may also be affected.

In extreme cases woman may think of harming themselves, or may experience unpleasant thoughts about their baby, these could include recurrent fears for your baby and your health but these thoughts are not uncommon in depression and your doctor and health visitor can help to support you through this. 

The fact is postnatal depression does not last; you will not always feel like this.  It can be a relief just to realise there is a problem and something can be done about it and that many woman have had these experiences too and have recovered.