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Postnatal depression
Depression following the birth of a baby is relatively common in women. There is no single cause of post natal depression. A number of things increase the risk of a woman developing post natal depression. Some of these things may include a previous history of depression, a difficult relationship with her husband or partner or lack of support.
Personality factors such as perfectionism or a tendency towards negativity may also contribute. On going stress such as financial difficulties can contribute. The actual birth experience and the temperament of the baby may also play a part.
Given the expectations of the mother and father and their families that having a baby is a happy and joyous time, feelings of depression at this time can be confusing and distressing for the mother. She can feel very isolated and different when she sees other mothers who seem to be coping much better than she is.
The fear of not being a good mother adds to the pressure the mother with depression experiences. The signs and symptoms of postnatal depression are the same as for any episode of depression. See the Signs and symptoms of depression
As many of these symptoms such as tiredness and sleep changes are common when caring for a baby, it can add to the mother’s confusion about whether what she is feeling is normal.
It can also mean that well meaning people may not pay attention to the mother if she talks about feeling depressed, telling her that it is normal and that she will soon improve. Postnatal depression can also be experienced by partners, for many of the reasons cited above.
Individual and group counselling is available at the Post & Ante Natal Depression & Anxiety Clinic at Reconnexion. Warm and experienced psychologists provide well researched strategies to assist recovery. See What happens in counselling. | 
