postpartum depression?

Question

How do I help a friend, pregnant for the 2nd time, who went through post-partum depression hell after her first baby? she just found out she's having another baby and she's understandably nervous.
Since the first experience with PPD, she has learned about it, but I'm wondering whether there are any ways to decrease the probability that it will happen again.

Answer 1

Oh boy, there are a ton of things you can do! It just depends on how involved you want to get. The best thing you can do is to be there for her. Let her know that you are there for her. Encourage her to get out of the house, play games, exercise, or other wise engage in healthy enjoyable activities.

If you are really willing to go that extra mile, volunteer to watch her kids for a few hours so she can get some extra sleep!! Sleep deprivation in and of itself can cause depression!

Answer 2

You are a good friend to be concerned. Many times it does not happen with a second pregnancy. As another poster here mentioned, every pregnancy is different. Her doctor or nurse practitioner should be aware of her concerns and if after delivery she and her medical provider feel it's indicated, she can get on medication right away. Best wishes to her!

Answer 3

I had it with my first but not my second. Every pregnancy is different. There's a good possibility it won't happen again. Her doctor should be able to decide whether she should be put on any medication - no one else can determine that.

Answer 4

Perhaps she should contact a doctor before the depression starts again. Don't wait ....be pro-active.

Answer 5

Tell her to get a grip on reality. More and more women are abusing and killing their whole families over this and being aquitted or sent to a mental institution. She should have terminated this pregnancy or not gotten pregnant in the first place if this has already happened before.