How could I avoid postpartum depression?

Most women will experience a form of depression known as the ‘baby blues’. Usually it is seen 2-3 days after birth. Symptoms include, crying, irritability, anger, exhaustion, anxiety and insomnia.
Hormones do play a large part in this, particularly considering the stress of the new baby.
A small percentage of women will have true postpartum depression. It is characterised by worsening of the above symptoms and last beyond 2-3 weeks.
It is advisable to discuss with you Doctor if you have any pre-disposing factors antenatally. These factors include history of depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive thoughts.
• Family history of depression
• Marital conflict
• Prior episode
• Low confidence as a parent
• Single parent
• Super women syndrome
• Hormonal risks (thyroid imbalance PMS, infertility)

When to seek help,
• When symptoms persist beyond 2-3 weeks after delivery
• When talking feeling out with people does not help
• Having great difficulty with daily living

REMEMBER
Post partum depression is very treatable. Seek support and seek professional help.