Post by Admin on Dec 4, 2015 11:26:50 GMT
You've taken the pregnancy test and shared the good news with those closest to you. Everyone congratulates you and says how glad you must be. Though you know you should feel happy, inside you may be feeling far from ecstatic. In fact, you may feel overwhelmed by sad or hopeless thoughts.
To make matters worse, you probably feel guilty about being so unhappy. But if you think you're the only one to have these feelings, be reassured that you're not. About one in 10 women suffer from bouts of depression at some point during their pregnancy.
How can I tell if I’m depressed?
There isn’t a simple set of symptoms that add up to depression, as it varies from person to person. However, if you've experienced any of the following symptoms in the last few weeks, it could be a sign that you're depressed:
feelings of sadness, bleakness or hopelessness
lack of interest or pleasure in doing anything
trouble getting to sleep, waking up in the night or sleeping too much
feeling tired or having little energy
overeating or lack of appetite
low self-esteem, or feelings of guilt or failure
difficulty concentrating
fidgeting a lot, or moving and speaking very slowly
thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Some of these symptoms, such as tiredness and changes to sleeping and eating patterns, are also normal side-effects of pregnancy.
However, if your symptoms last for weeks or months at a time, and start to interfere with your daily life, you may have depression. For example, if you're struggling at work because you can't concentrate, or you feel unable to get anything done at home.
Don't wait until you reach this point before seeking help. If you have any problems coping with your emotions, it's important to talk to your GP or midwife as soon as possible.
What has caused my depression?
Different people develop depression for different reasons. One cause is a stressful life event.
Pregnancy may be overwhelming enough on its own to cause depression. Or for women already feeling low for a combination of reasons, pregnancy may act as a trigger that brings on a more serious depression.
If you've previously had a severe mental health condition, you're more likely to relapse during pregnancy or after birth than at other times in your life. Milder mental health problems can also cause issues, though it varies from person to person.
In addition, some people are more likely to get depression than others. For example, if your family has a history of depression or you have other issues, such as being isolated from your family or using drugs.
Factors that may contribute to or cause depression during pregnancy include:
Money worries. Family finance can be a concern in any pregnancy. But if you're really struggling or worried about how you'll manage once your baby arrives, this can be a source of great stress.
Physical discomfort. From morning sickness to pelvic pain, it's well known that pregnancy is tough on your body. But coping with these symptoms day after day can also take its toll on your mental health.
Changes to your relationships. You may wonder how your relationship with your partner will change once you become parents. Or if you already have children, you may be concerned about how they'll be affected by their new sibling.
Complications in a previous pregnancy or birth. If you've previously had a complicated pregnancy, or a difficult or traumatic birth, you may feel more anxious this time around.
Previous infertility or miscarriage. If you found it difficult to get pregnant, or have had a miscarriage in the past, it’s only natural to be worried about your pregnancy.
If any of the above are causing you worry or concern, speak to your GP or midwife so they can offer support and reassurance.
Unfortunately, you’re also more likely to experience depression during and after your pregnancy if you’re a victim of domestic abuse.
Asking for help can be incredibly daunting when you're in an abusive relationship. But it's very common for domestic violence and emotional abuse to get worse when you're pregnant. It's therefore essential for the safety of you and your baby that you speak to someone.
Don't feel guilty for feeling depressed or for seeking help of any kind. Remind yourself that depression is an illness, not a choice. Fortunately, with the right help and support, you're likely to get better.
How will my depression be treated?
There are two main types of treatment available: psychological treatments and medication. Every woman is different, so your GP will work with you to find the best treatment, or combination of treatments, for you.
Psychological treatments
The treatment your GP is most likely to recommend is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Instead of focusing on your past, CBT helps you to deal with issues you're facing right now. It does this by giving you the tools you need to recognise your emotions and counter your negative thoughts.
If your depression is mild, your GP may give you leaflets, books, or access to online courses, which will take you through the basics of CBT step by step. If this doesn't help, or your GP thinks you're at risk of more severe depression, he may refer you for CBT sessions with a qualified therapist.
Your GP may also recommend counselling for mild depression. A counsellor will give you the chance to talk through your worries in a judgement-free space, where you even cry and shout if you need to. She'll then work with you to help you see them in a different way.
The idea of talking about your problems with a stranger may seem odd. But many people find it helpful to chat with someone who's not involved in their daily life.
CBT and counselling are available on the NHS, although waiting lists can be long in some areas. These treatments are also widely available privately, along with other types of therapy such as couples counselling and traditional psychoanalysis.
You can find a therapist in your area using the British Psychological Society website.
Medication (antidepressants)
If self-help and talking therapies don't work for you, or your depression is particularly severe, your GP may recommend that you try an antidepressant.
There isn't enough evidence to determine whether antidepressants are completely safe to take in pregnancy. However, not taking medication when you need to can also have risks for you and your baby.
If your GP recommends medication, she'll have carefully weighed up the risks and benefits to you and your baby first. She'll explain these to you so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
Don't take any herbal remedies for depression without talking to your GP first. In particular, avoid St John's wort, as this isn't safe during pregnancy.
If you were taking any kind of medication for mental health issues before you became pregnant, don't stop taking it without talking to your doctor first. Stopping suddenly could have risks for you and your baby.
In some cases, your GP may recommend a combination of medication alongside a psychological therapy. Whatever you try, speak to your GP if you feel as though they're not helping. It can sometimes take a few tries to find the right therapist or treatment for you.
Is there anything else I can do to relieve my depression?
Depression can make it hard for you to prioritise your own needs. If you can do them, the following self-help techniques could help to lift your mood:
Talk about it
You may find that sharing your concerns with your partner, friends and family can help you feel better. They may be able to offer some perspective or practical help, and you could also find that simply talking about your problems makes them seem more manageable.
It can also be helpful to talk to other pregnant women who know exactly what you're going through. BabyCentre's online antenatal classes can be a great support network. Or you can always chat to sympathetic fellow mums-to-be who know what you're going through in our friendly community.
Take time to relax
Stress is a common trigger for depression, so be sure to give yourself a break every now and then. It's understandable if you want to have everything ready before the baby arrives, but she'll need you to be happy and healthy too.
Relaxing can sometimes be easier said than done, especially if you already have children. But try to accept any help you can, and allow yourself some "me-time". Lunch out with your partner, half an hour's reading before bed, or a calming bath could all lift your mood.
Our feel-good pregnancy calendar has plenty of ideas for how to treat yourself in your first, second and third trimesters.
Look after yourself
It can be difficult to take proper care of yourself when you're feeling low. And pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue can make it even trickier.
However, eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep are all important in the fight against depression.
Exercise in particular is great for you and your baby, and it releases feel-good chemicals that boost your mood. Go for a gentle stroll, take a leisurely swim, or for extra relaxation, try some pregnancy yoga.
Will my depression get worse after the birth?
Not necessarily. It's true that the first year after your baby's born can be a particularly vulnerable time for your mental health.
However, if you've already been diagnosed with depression, and are receiving treatment, you're in the best place to deal with it. The sooner postnatal depression is identified and treated, the quicker you're likely to recover.
Bear in mind that it's normal to feel a bit down and weepy after giving birth. This is known as the "baby blues" and it doesn't last longer than a week or so.
If you find it difficult to cope, or your symptoms last for more than a few weeks, see your GP. She'll take a look at your existing treatment to see if there's a better option for you.
Where else can I get help with depression?
The National Childbirth Trust (0300 330 0700) will put you in touch with a support group in your area.
The Samaritans run a 24-hour helpline on 116 123.
The charity Mind (0300 123 3393) offers information, help and advice about mental health.
You can also get support and advice from fellow mums-to-be in our supportive community.
Depression and anxiety can sometimes go hand-in-hand during pregnancy. If you often feel worried or anxious, learn more about anxiety in pregnancy.
To make matters worse, you probably feel guilty about being so unhappy. But if you think you're the only one to have these feelings, be reassured that you're not. About one in 10 women suffer from bouts of depression at some point during their pregnancy.
How can I tell if I’m depressed?
There isn’t a simple set of symptoms that add up to depression, as it varies from person to person. However, if you've experienced any of the following symptoms in the last few weeks, it could be a sign that you're depressed:
feelings of sadness, bleakness or hopelessness
lack of interest or pleasure in doing anything
trouble getting to sleep, waking up in the night or sleeping too much
feeling tired or having little energy
overeating or lack of appetite
low self-esteem, or feelings of guilt or failure
difficulty concentrating
fidgeting a lot, or moving and speaking very slowly
thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Some of these symptoms, such as tiredness and changes to sleeping and eating patterns, are also normal side-effects of pregnancy.
However, if your symptoms last for weeks or months at a time, and start to interfere with your daily life, you may have depression. For example, if you're struggling at work because you can't concentrate, or you feel unable to get anything done at home.
Don't wait until you reach this point before seeking help. If you have any problems coping with your emotions, it's important to talk to your GP or midwife as soon as possible.
What has caused my depression?
Different people develop depression for different reasons. One cause is a stressful life event.
Pregnancy may be overwhelming enough on its own to cause depression. Or for women already feeling low for a combination of reasons, pregnancy may act as a trigger that brings on a more serious depression.
If you've previously had a severe mental health condition, you're more likely to relapse during pregnancy or after birth than at other times in your life. Milder mental health problems can also cause issues, though it varies from person to person.
In addition, some people are more likely to get depression than others. For example, if your family has a history of depression or you have other issues, such as being isolated from your family or using drugs.
Factors that may contribute to or cause depression during pregnancy include:
Money worries. Family finance can be a concern in any pregnancy. But if you're really struggling or worried about how you'll manage once your baby arrives, this can be a source of great stress.
Physical discomfort. From morning sickness to pelvic pain, it's well known that pregnancy is tough on your body. But coping with these symptoms day after day can also take its toll on your mental health.
Changes to your relationships. You may wonder how your relationship with your partner will change once you become parents. Or if you already have children, you may be concerned about how they'll be affected by their new sibling.
Complications in a previous pregnancy or birth. If you've previously had a complicated pregnancy, or a difficult or traumatic birth, you may feel more anxious this time around.
Previous infertility or miscarriage. If you found it difficult to get pregnant, or have had a miscarriage in the past, it’s only natural to be worried about your pregnancy.
If any of the above are causing you worry or concern, speak to your GP or midwife so they can offer support and reassurance.
Unfortunately, you’re also more likely to experience depression during and after your pregnancy if you’re a victim of domestic abuse.
Asking for help can be incredibly daunting when you're in an abusive relationship. But it's very common for domestic violence and emotional abuse to get worse when you're pregnant. It's therefore essential for the safety of you and your baby that you speak to someone.
Don't feel guilty for feeling depressed or for seeking help of any kind. Remind yourself that depression is an illness, not a choice. Fortunately, with the right help and support, you're likely to get better.
How will my depression be treated?
There are two main types of treatment available: psychological treatments and medication. Every woman is different, so your GP will work with you to find the best treatment, or combination of treatments, for you.
Psychological treatments
The treatment your GP is most likely to recommend is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Instead of focusing on your past, CBT helps you to deal with issues you're facing right now. It does this by giving you the tools you need to recognise your emotions and counter your negative thoughts.
If your depression is mild, your GP may give you leaflets, books, or access to online courses, which will take you through the basics of CBT step by step. If this doesn't help, or your GP thinks you're at risk of more severe depression, he may refer you for CBT sessions with a qualified therapist.
Your GP may also recommend counselling for mild depression. A counsellor will give you the chance to talk through your worries in a judgement-free space, where you even cry and shout if you need to. She'll then work with you to help you see them in a different way.
The idea of talking about your problems with a stranger may seem odd. But many people find it helpful to chat with someone who's not involved in their daily life.
CBT and counselling are available on the NHS, although waiting lists can be long in some areas. These treatments are also widely available privately, along with other types of therapy such as couples counselling and traditional psychoanalysis.
You can find a therapist in your area using the British Psychological Society website.
Medication (antidepressants)
If self-help and talking therapies don't work for you, or your depression is particularly severe, your GP may recommend that you try an antidepressant.
There isn't enough evidence to determine whether antidepressants are completely safe to take in pregnancy. However, not taking medication when you need to can also have risks for you and your baby.
If your GP recommends medication, she'll have carefully weighed up the risks and benefits to you and your baby first. She'll explain these to you so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
Don't take any herbal remedies for depression without talking to your GP first. In particular, avoid St John's wort, as this isn't safe during pregnancy.
If you were taking any kind of medication for mental health issues before you became pregnant, don't stop taking it without talking to your doctor first. Stopping suddenly could have risks for you and your baby.
In some cases, your GP may recommend a combination of medication alongside a psychological therapy. Whatever you try, speak to your GP if you feel as though they're not helping. It can sometimes take a few tries to find the right therapist or treatment for you.
Is there anything else I can do to relieve my depression?
Depression can make it hard for you to prioritise your own needs. If you can do them, the following self-help techniques could help to lift your mood:
Talk about it
You may find that sharing your concerns with your partner, friends and family can help you feel better. They may be able to offer some perspective or practical help, and you could also find that simply talking about your problems makes them seem more manageable.
It can also be helpful to talk to other pregnant women who know exactly what you're going through. BabyCentre's online antenatal classes can be a great support network. Or you can always chat to sympathetic fellow mums-to-be who know what you're going through in our friendly community.
Take time to relax
Stress is a common trigger for depression, so be sure to give yourself a break every now and then. It's understandable if you want to have everything ready before the baby arrives, but she'll need you to be happy and healthy too.
Relaxing can sometimes be easier said than done, especially if you already have children. But try to accept any help you can, and allow yourself some "me-time". Lunch out with your partner, half an hour's reading before bed, or a calming bath could all lift your mood.
Our feel-good pregnancy calendar has plenty of ideas for how to treat yourself in your first, second and third trimesters.
Look after yourself
It can be difficult to take proper care of yourself when you're feeling low. And pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue can make it even trickier.
However, eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep are all important in the fight against depression.
Exercise in particular is great for you and your baby, and it releases feel-good chemicals that boost your mood. Go for a gentle stroll, take a leisurely swim, or for extra relaxation, try some pregnancy yoga.
Will my depression get worse after the birth?
Not necessarily. It's true that the first year after your baby's born can be a particularly vulnerable time for your mental health.
However, if you've already been diagnosed with depression, and are receiving treatment, you're in the best place to deal with it. The sooner postnatal depression is identified and treated, the quicker you're likely to recover.
Bear in mind that it's normal to feel a bit down and weepy after giving birth. This is known as the "baby blues" and it doesn't last longer than a week or so.
If you find it difficult to cope, or your symptoms last for more than a few weeks, see your GP. She'll take a look at your existing treatment to see if there's a better option for you.
Where else can I get help with depression?
The National Childbirth Trust (0300 330 0700) will put you in touch with a support group in your area.
The Samaritans run a 24-hour helpline on 116 123.
The charity Mind (0300 123 3393) offers information, help and advice about mental health.
You can also get support and advice from fellow mums-to-be in our supportive community.
Depression and anxiety can sometimes go hand-in-hand during pregnancy. If you often feel worried or anxious, learn more about anxiety in pregnancy.