Postnatal depression (PND) is estimated to affect at least 10-20% of new mothers. It is the most common psychological complication of childbirth, and impacts on not only the woman, but her partner, the baby, other children, extended family and friends.

Symptoms include:

Sadness, tearfulness
Feelings of inadequacy
Hopelessness and helplessness
Sense of failure and inability to cope
Anxiety, panic
Exhaustion
Guilt, shame
Sleep disturbance
Change in appetite or eating patterns
Irritability

Poor concentration

Mood disturbance

Lack of confidence regarding parenting ability

Loss of energy

Loss of libido

Lack of interest in usual activities

Low self esteem

Thoughts of suicide

Thoughts of running away

The process of adjusting to parenthood after the birth of a child is one of the most stressful life events. A couple become a family, and this entails adjustments for each of the individuals, as well as changes within the relationship.

If you would like more information, contact Elyse Frankel on 9271 2241.

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