"life is not a having and a getting, but a being and a becoming". Matthew Arnold

Post Natal Depression The giving birth to a new life is a major event within a woman's life. We are conditioned into believing that this will automatically be experienced as joyous and celebratory, the reality may be somewhat different. After the birth of a baby 50-70% of newly delivered mothers may experience what is termed as a transient form of depression most commonly called "The Blues", the character of which is weeping and a feeling of emotional upset for the new mother which usually takes place between the second and tenth day after the delivery of the baby. There is also a more extreme persistent form of "The Blues", which for some mothers may progress into longer term Post Natal Depression beginning within the first two weeks of delivery or later for example at 3 -4 months which may not be diagnosed. 10-15% of mothers may suffer Post Natal Depression. It can occur after the birth of the first baby or any subsequent births, however having Post Natal Depression after one birth does not necessarily mean there will be a recurrence. There are many varied causes giving explanation of the condition. May be a biological cause Changes in the hormone levels after delivery A reaction to the emotional and physical stress connected to the birth experience Changes in role Loss of personal identity Feeling isolated Lack of support Loss of financial status Poor relationship with own mother Previous history of depression (either self or within family) Life stress, financial emotional social Early loss of own mother Symptoms of Post Natal Depression Low mood Sadness, tearfulness, sleep disturbance Anxiety Panic Attacks Fear of going out Obsession or irrational thoughts Suicidal thoughts Self attacking Low self-esteem Feeling of guilt Irritability Negative perceptions (about self, others, world) Lack of confidence Separation anxiety (over protection of baby) Disengagement with baby Feeling of failure Concerns over health issues Palpitations, headaches, stomach upsets Within my practice I have many years experience as a counsellor in working with Post Natal Depression. I work in an holistic way in order to provide the best outcome. This involves looking at both the physical, mental and emotional aspects of my clients life. The overall impact of depression affects the whole family unit. Early intervention proves positive enabling change and growth within relationships with mother baby and other family members. My clients are supported and helped by being enabled to share their thoughts feelings within a safe, non-judgemental environment wherein they gain insight into the causes of their depression and find ways of working through these difficulties with someone trained in this sphere. Post Natal Depression is a treatable illness, there is help available in order to overcome it. Roslin Brown MBACP