Post Natal Depression/Anxiety

The symptoms of PND (Postnatal depression) can vary from person to person, however below is a list of the most common symptoms;

• Anxiety - excessive worry and fear. 
• Low mood/Depression.
• Lack of motivation.
• Compulsive, intrusive thoughts.
• Overwhelming feelings of responsibility.
• Feelings of dread.
• Anger/frustration.
• Perfectionist values.
• Strong feelings of guilt and self blame.
• Low confidence, feelings of loosing your sense of self.
• Physical symptoms can include; Tiredness, palpitations, general aches and pains, tearfulness and many more.  

A study conducted by 4children claims that up to 35,000 mothers each year face postnatal depression (PND) without diagnosis or treatment. The survey is based on women, many on retrospect, believe that they experienced PND but were not diagnosed. 

The report also highlighted the need for early intervention for mothers with maternal and post natal depression. It is increasingly accepted that with the right help early on many crises can be prevented for the good of the children, the wider family and their community.

The most frequently quoted statistic for women suffering from PND is 1-10 however from my experience and from various research papers the evidence suggests this number is far higher. Evidence has shown that for those mothers that are screened for PND as many as half lie on the test in fear of implications. The fear of having children taken away is still very apparent.

In the 4children campaign for PND they commissioned bounty to undertake a survey of more than 2000 mums aimed at gathering new evidence about the prevalence awareness and experience postnatal depression. The results showed that half of women (49%) who had suffered PND had not sought professional help. The survey reveals the reasons why many mothers are not seeking help, 60% did not feel their condition was serious enough to seek help. 33% felt too scared in fear of implications from professionals and 29% was not aware they were suffering from PND.

4 children survey suggest that G.P’s are more likely to prescribe anti-depressants; of the women who saw health professionals, 70% were prescribed anti depressants while 41% were given access to talking therapies. This ratio is echoed within the groups we run, with many mothers feeling ‘let down’ by health professionals because they were not told about services available.

Findings demonstrate that there is an urgent need to raise awareness of the symptoms of postnatal depression amongst the general population. We also need to challenge the damaging stigma surrounding the diagnosis, as well as the fear of the implications to suffering the symptoms and asking for help.

The reports and surveys confirm my own findings having worked with 100’s of mothers since 2008.  Please see the testimonials for feedback from mothers who have attended our Beyond Birth Course.

Please see the Courses tab to the Left for further information on the 'Beyond Birth course' or the Counselling Tab for information on one to one therapy.