worried about post partum depression?

Question

I'm worried about getting post partum depression- i know its wierd to even think of it before i have my baby but due to circumstances, losing my mother whom i was very close to when i was 6 months pregnant , already having 2 very young children to care for along with a newborn plus having the misery of recovering from a c section, i'm afraid all this will contribute to me not being able to bounce back easily. I've been very strong so far but with the hormonal drop you experience afterwards its something I might be prone to. Is there any way to prevent it? Is there any pointers anyone has on getting through the first few weeks with a positive attitude ? I just want some input from others who may have experienced it and how you got through-

Answer 1

Hi - I visit new mothers all the time in my job as a child and family health nurse. Yes, you have a few factors which could contribute to your struggle -ie. losing your mother, the c section and having a lot on your plate with the other little ones.
Firstly, make sure you are well nourished, especially if you are breastfeeding. That means having breakfast and the essential nutrients and fluid throughout the day - protein, Vit C and Vit B espec. because they can't be stored in the body (take supplements if nec.) Support is major and that depends on your husband, other family and friends. Do you have support there? Be open about how you feel if you need help. You need a mother substitute - maybe a sister, friend or neighbour. Don't stay inside and isolate yourself. Try and get timeout from the other two children. Seek a counsellor at least if you have no-one who can listen to you, validate your concerns and feelings. Counsellors may be found in your local Community Health Centre. Remember during the first 2 weeks or so its totally normal to feel "down" at times or teary. Have a postnatal depression scale test and visit your local baby clinic. Let your husband know how you FEEL. God bless. Write to me if really upset. [e-mail] (Australia)

Answer 2

Two simple observations from the 'outside.'

One:
> *definitely* discuss with your doctor and get a firm answer.
> Consider prophylactic medication if you have a family history or real fears (Rx may depend on whether or not you are breast feeding).
> Email or contact friends on a regular basis so they can help you judge your mental condition - then take their advice.

Two:
> Get some help, no matter how slight. Try to arrange for some time off / away from the kids. It doesn't have to be a long time, just down time without worrying about feedings, wiping noses, etc.
> Include hubby if he's in the picture and if possible (if he's working, that's what FMLA is for).
> Get some rest (the other down time). Sleep deprivation is a form of "enhanced interrogation" so why would anyone think they could do all the work without ill consequences.
> have a small treat (food or purchase) now and then; don't be excessive but don't worry about the weight once in a while if it's a problem.

Chin up.

Answer 3

about 5 years ago, I started to fall into a really depressive episode. At first I thought it was only because I had a bad break from a relationship but the feelings wouldn't go away even after I got a new girlfriend. It was wrecking my life until a point where it was seriously affecting my work and personal life.

She was very worried but at the same time couldn't understand why I was still sad and thought that I still couldn't let go of my previous relationship. Being the wonderful person that she is, she put aside her feelings and suggested I go for psychiatric evaluation. Many months later and even more anti-depressants, I was not coming close to being better at all.

After doing some research online, I found out the real cause as you described it really makes a lot of sense and purchased this program. The results were simply astonishing. I read this book over three times and put all words in action. Using this method, I've kept my depression at bay ever since. Up to date I'm still living happily with my girlfriend.

Depression Free Method?

Answer 4

honestly no longer. submit partum melancholy is an extremely authentic and extreme undertaking. in case you experience your self slipping you should touch your physician. bear in mind your hormones are on the journey of their existence! i'm unlikely to sugar coat it for you ... the 1st bit with a sparkling toddler will probable be the craziest undertaking you have ever experienced. you may adventure all those issues you pronounced or perhaps some extra. I on no account been a brilliant sleeper formerly I had my toddler so I parent, no biggy through fact i'm up in any respect hours besides. i became incorrect. A new child can carry sleep deprevation to a sparkling point, which additionally pulls you down in the dumps. yet relax certain, there's a easy shining on the tip of the tunnel! concentration on the blessing it truly is to have your toddler and attempt to stay valuable! be sure to ask for help once you think of you go with it!! there is not any shame or blame in that!! save the strains of communication open. Sleep whilst the toddler sleeps, who cares if there is dishes to be achieved... they're going to get achieved ultimately. consume nicely balanced foodstuff, do no longer worry with reference to the burden you will nevertheless have on you... it will disapear in time. you are going to make blunders, yet hi, all of us do. would not make you a bad mom. each and every from time to time toddler's cry and this is totally frusterating and frightening once you do no longer understand the thank you to assist them, yet you only could desire to truck on, you will come across a answer. start up with the diaper, hungry or wanting a cuddle, you're able to be able to also have a toddler with colic, wherein case there is over-the-counter remedies for that... proceed to take your prenatal supplements and that i additionally study that iron (they are going to probable start to grant you a supplement only after giving delivery on the wellness center) can help try against the toddler blues! in case you ever have innovations of harming your toddler (and that i'm being extreme as i've got heard it may come to that) please communicate over with somebody and get acceptable help rapidly away. anyhow, formerly you already are conscious of it, the baby blur will bypass, workouts will settle in and you'd be feeling like your self returned. attempt to no longer worry approximately this to plenty now... you're able to be able to ask your self your self and not have the blues in any respect!!! superb needs! =)

Answer 5

Talk to your OB/GYN next time you have an appointment. Also, since you have other factors that might cause depression that are unrelated to your pregnancy, it might be helpful to discuss your feelings with a counselor BEFORE you give birth.

Kudos to you for recognizing the potential. I bet you're a wonderful mother! :)

Answer 6

I have to second that, talk to your doctor. They can give you some medicine to help with those first weeks. I had some trouble. If you like, email me. You can make it, but you need to let the people around you know, especially your doctor and husband.

Answer 7

You seriously should be having this conversation with your dr. This post partum is no joke. You can lose yourself quick if you dont treat it asap.

Answer 8

I was worried as welll..you just have to tell youself that you will be fine and you will...telling urself that u might get it...then you will likely to get it. mind over matter. you will be fine as long as u tell urself that u will be and that u wouldnt let such a thing happen