If you suspect that you have postnatal depression you should see your doctor as soon as possible because the earlier it is diagnosed, the quicker it can be treated.
However, you must remember that it can take a long time to completely recover.
Post Natal Depression MedicationAntidepressants are often prescribed to treat moderate or severe cases of postnatal depression. They help to balance the mood-altering chemicals in your brain so symptoms such as low mood, irritability, lack of concentration, and sleeplessness are reduced.
Generally, a course of antidepressants will last between 4-6 months. If your symptoms improve quickly the dose may be reduced. Antidepressants don't become effective until 2-4 weeks of taking them, so you are unlikely to notice an improvement immediately. You should continue taking your medication for the full length of time recommended by your doctor because if you stop taking it too early, your depression may return.
The type of medication that you are prescribed will depend on how severe your PND is and also whether you are breastfeeding your baby. Certain medicines, such as lithium, clozapine and lamotrigine, are not recommended while breastfeeding. Your GP will prescribe a medicine that has the least risk to both you and your baby, and it should be started on the lowest possible dose.
Your GP should discuss with you any side effects that may be caused by the medication. If you do experience any side effects your GP will be able to alter your dose or give you a different medicine to try.
If you suffer from postnatal psychosis (a very severe form of PND) you may be prescribed tranquillisers to reduce symptoms such as irrational behaviour, hallucinations and suicidal thoughts. Tranquillisers are only advised for short term use.
For the majority of people suffering from PND they notice an improvement within a few weeks of starting treatment with antidepressants. However, they are not an effective method for everyone.
Post Natal Depression SupportHaving support from you partner, family and friends plays a big part in your recovery. It is essential that you talk to people you are close to about your feelings rather than trying to deal with it on your own. Relationships can be put under a lot of strain if one partner feels they are being shut out.
Social workers, counsellors and GPs are also available to offer support if you have PND. Self-help groups can also provide you with help and advice about how to cope with PND, and you may find it reassuring to meet other women are in a similar position to you.
Post Natal Depression CounsellingIn some cases your GP will refer you to a psychologist, or a different mental health specialist. Talking treatments can be very effective when dealing with postnatal depression. There are many forms of counselling, some are available through the NHS, some aren't.
 Cognitive Therapy (CT) is based on the idea that certain thoughts can trigger mental health problems, such as depression. The therapist will show you how your thoughts can make you depressed and they aim to change your thought patterns in a way that is more helpful and positive. Sessions are usually conducted on a weekly basis over a period of several months.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) combines cognitive therapy and behaviour therapy. Behaviour therapy is about learning to change any behaviour that is harmful to you and others around you. The aim of CBT is to help you change the way you think, and how you behave as a result of it.
Other talking therapies include Interpersonal Therapy and Problem Solving Therapy. Trained health visitors sometimes give short counselling sessions over several weeks which help to ease PND.
For those who have moderate PND, talking treatments such as CT and CBT have about the same success rate as antidepressants (50-70%). However, talking treatments require a certain amount of motivation so they are more difficult for people with severe PND who often suffer from extreme lack of motivation.
Some research has suggested that a combination of antidepressants and counselling is more effective than either treatment alone.
Other Post Natal Depression TreatmentsRegular exercise such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming can help to ease the symptoms of depression.
St Johns Wort is a herbal antidepressant that is available to buy over-the-counter from pharmacies without prescription. Its effectiveness has not been proven and it can cause side effects. Also, it is not suitable to take alongside some other medications so you should check with your GP if you want to try it.
If you suffer from severe depression and you haven't yet found a treatment that works you can try specialist treatments such as electro convulsive therapy (ECT), which involves giving electric shocks to the brain.
June 2011 |
What is Post Natal Depression?
