Post natal depression and getting support
| Kelly Salambasis
MORE2CHILDCARE SUPPORTING MOTHERS WITH PND
Postnatal depression (PND) is very common, affecting as many as one in five new mothers. It may present in many different ways and is just as likely to include symptoms of anxiety as those typically associated with a low mood. For this reason many prefer to describe it as postnatal distress or illness rather than depression.
More2Childcare has funded MumsAid (a fantastic charity that support mothers suffering from post natal depression) for a year and offer a place for their counselling team to work with mothers whilst our nursery provides care for their children in our creche. This service will be delivered free to the community and is available to mothers at More2 first and foremost. If you are suffering from anxiety or if you know of anyone that might benefit please contact MumsAid directly and state you are a parent of a More2 childcare. Every phone call is confidential. Please call Jessica on 07758 763 908 or email her on Jessica@mums-aid.org.
SYMPTOMS OF PND MAY INCLUDE:
feeling sad and tearful
feeling anxious or afraid to be on your own with your baby
being preoccupied with worrying thoughts
having difficulty adjusting to parenthood or in bonding with your baby
experiencing difficulties with your partner since having a baby
feeling stressed and unmotivated
feeling tired and overwhelmed
having difficulties getting over your birth experience
Most women experience the baby blues, some tearfulness and low mood a few days after birth, but if your problems persist you may have PND. With the right support PND is very treatable and so it is important that anyone experiencing it seeks help as soon as they can
SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP IF YOU:
are unable to handle the intensity of what you are feeling, or the physical sensations
continue to feel numb or overly stressed
feel like your emotions are not returning to 'normal'
have disturbed sleeping and eating patterns
have no person or group with whom you can share your feelings and experiences
find relationships with friends and family are suffering