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Postnatal Depression Signs That You Need To Know

Disclaimer: Elise Ho, aka “Dr. Ho” is a Holistic Health & Life Coach. Dr. Ho is NOT a medical doctor, licensed therapist, lawyer, or a bevy of other things. Products or services that Dr. Ho believes in are the only ones that she recommends. Dr. Ho may receive compensation, product, or an affiliate commission on anything you see on this site. This is a personal Website solely reflecting Dr. Ho’s personal opinions. Statements on this site do not represent the views or policies of any organization with which I may be affiliated.

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Postnatal Depression Signs That You Need To Know.

 

Do you need to worry about postnatal depression?

TG Psychology

The Effects and Signs Of Postnatal Depression That You Need To Know

 

Mothers may experience postnatal depression even though having a baby is one of the most wonderful feelings that can be experienced.

 

Mothers and fathers shouldn’t worry as postnatal depression isn’t dangerous at all if you or your family keep an eye on the new mother. It’s considered a fairly normal phenomenon among new mothers and those who recently gave birth to children.

 

These so-called “baby blues” should last around two weeks or so just after giving birth.

What are the signs of postnatal depression?

Postnatal depression manifests in a lot of ways, and these signs don’t show all at once. If you notice some of these appear, however, it’s best to consult with a doctor or a physician immediately.

 

For new mothers, or the loved ones of new mothers, be aware of the following:

 

  • low mood, sadness
  • lack of appetite
  • increase in appetite
  • agitation
  • irritability
  • feelings of guilt
  • hopelessness
  • loss of interest in the whole world
  • lack of enjoyment
  • unreasonably low energy
  • lack of sleep
  • a concern of  ability to offer childcare
  • lack of concentration

 

Sometimes, post-natal depression can actually form gradually and over time.

It can be difficult to spot and recognize if it happens this way.

Parents sometimes feel this way when they think they’re not coping enough with what’s happening to them and their new family.

These are other signs to look for in other parents if you think they have post-natal depression:

  • frequent episodes of crying
  • difficulty bonding with their child
  • withdrawing contact from people around them
  • feelings of hopeless
  • negative talk
  • self-neglect
  • loss of sense of time
  • lack of sense of humor

 

How does Postnatal depression affect the people involved?

 

Post-natal depression is similar to other forms of depression, which means it can affect a wide variety of people if left unchecked.

 

It can affect one’s daily activities and may potentially be detrimental to recovery, especially after birth.

 

It can also affect relationships, such as those between the mother and father, the mother and other relatives and friends, and especially with the mother and child.

 

New mothers and mothers who think they have postnatal depression should not hesitate to check with a health advisor immediately if they think they have these signs.

 

Always remember that you don’t have to deal with this problem alone, as it can go on for months and even years if you don’t address this immediately.

 

Can postnatal depression be treated?

Postnatal depression is definitely treatable. However, as with any other form of depression, it is good to seek attention from your healthcare team. It also helps for other people to continuously show their support and love for those with postnatal depression.

 

Conclusion

 

New parents rejoice in having a new child. However, having new children also means having a ton of new experiences to cherish. Postnatal depression can be a part of these experiences that they can learn from and use to strengthen their bonds with.

 

Additional Reading:

  1. How Sex Hormones Act on the Brain
  2. Sex Hormone Imbalances
  3. Is Your Mood Affected By What You Eat?
  4. Delicious Foods That Reduce Brain Inflammation
  5. How I’ve Learned to Live with My Mental Illness
  6. 5 Simple Exercises to Improve Your Mental Health
  7. Help Your Loved One with Mental Illness

 

Has postnatal depression affected you or someone that you love?

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Naturally Yours,
Elise Ho
Ph.D., D.N. Psych.
Behavioral & Mental Health Specialist

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18 thoughts on “Postnatal Depression Signs That You Need To Know”

  1. I love this post. I unfortunately had a friend commit suicide due to postnatal depression and we have all looked back and seen the signs that we didn’t notice at the time. This topic needs to get more exposure so women aren’t left alone to deal with their depression.

    1. I am so sorry to hear about your friend. Perhaps, if the info was more available back then such a tragedy would not have occurred.

  2. We need a lot more visibility around this, women speaking up and sharing. Our bodies have gone through a major shift with pregnancy, child birth and then the post. I think it will help a lot of women prepare.

    The other topic is menopause…

  3. I wish I had seen something like this almost 10 years ago. I struggled so much after my first born, and it took me a long time to get help. This is fantastic and should be more well known.

  4. I feel like there needs to be so much more awareness about the very common but non-depression seeming signs of ppd. Especially anxiety. Fear of being alone. Inability to sit still. Difficulty breathing, eating, or focusing. It’s not always negativity and difficulty bonding. This is such a timely article and I love that you’ve highlighted areas like agitation and irritability as signs of ppd- raising awareness is so important.

  5. Such an important topic! Depression comes in many forms and can effect anyone. Knowing what to look for when it comes to postnatal depression will be such a help for new parents and their loved ones. Thanks for sharing ♡.

  6. Thank you so much for sharing and spreading the word! A friend of mine has gone through this and it was heart-breaking. Everyone expects you to be super joyful with your new baby and in fact, you are miserable!

    But it will get better! And you will become super joyful. Have a little patience.

    1. People have many expectations and then when we cannot meet them it makes us feel worse. That is a vicious cycle.

  7. This is such an important topic. I suffered from PPD after my daughter was born and was so fortunate that those closest to me recognized the symptoms. Thank you so much for sharing.

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About The Author

Dr. Elise Ho

Dr. Elise Ho

Dr. Elise Ho is a Holistic Health & Life Coach with a special interest in emotional health, life alignment, and energy flow.

Elise will partner with you to align your mindset, your energy, your home and your career so that you can live your life's desire with freedom and love.

Elise offers 30 years of experience and multiple certifications and degrees including a Ph.D. in Natural Health and a doctoral degree in Naturopathic Psychology.