Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Postnatal depression, or postpartum depression (PPD), can begin within the first year after childbirth, often starting in the first few weeks. It’s triggered by hormonal changes and the challenges of adjusting to caring for a new child. While ‘baby blues’ involve temporary mood swings and fatigue, postnatal depression is more severe and persistent, significantly affecting daily life.
It’s important to remember that everyone is unique, so symptoms of postnatal depression can vary in nature, severity, and duration. However, below are some of the more common signs and symptoms.
Persistent sadness: Feeling consistently down or hopeless
Loss of interest: Losing enjoyment in activities once enjoyed
Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy
Anxiety: Experiencing excessive worry or unease
Sleep disturbances: Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
Changes in appetite: Eating too much or too little
Difficulty bonding with the baby: Struggling to feel close to or care for the baby
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness: Feeling inadequate as a parent or experiencing guilt
Irritability or agitation: Feeling easily irritated or restless
Loss of concentration: Finding it hard to focus or make decisions
Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby: Having thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby (in severe cases)
Approximately 15–20% of
women in Australia are
affected by perinatal
depression or anxiety
Around 14% of women in
Australia (one in seven)
experience PND
The childbearing years,
particularly the first few
weeks after childbirth, are
the peak period for onset of
depression in women
10-20% of women will
experience clinically
significant anxiety during
pregnancy or the postnatal
period
Childbirth is a major event that brings about a whirlwind of emotions for new mothers. It’s common to experience a mix of joy and anxiety, with some women also feeling sadness and tearfulness, often referred to as the “baby blues.” These feelings typically resolve within a couple of weeks. However, around 1 in 7 women experience postnatal depression (PND), a more severe and long-lasting condition that can significantly impact their ability to function and bond with their baby.
Research on postnatal depression shows that it can stem from various factors, including hormonal changes, a history of depression or anxiety, lack of social support, and lifestyle factors like diet and sleep. PND can deeply affect the mother’s well-being and her relationship with her infant, potentially leading to long-term effects on both.
The most effective treatments for postnatal depression involve a combination of therapies tailored to the individual’s needs. Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), is often the first line of treatment, especially for mild to moderate cases. CBT has been shown to be particularly effective in helping women manage their symptoms and improve their overall mood.
For more severe cases, antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are commonly prescribed and are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Combining psychotherapy with medication can provide the best results for those experiencing more significant symptoms.
In addition to these standard treatments, other options include repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic waves to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This treatment can be particularly appealing to women who are concerned about the side effects of medications.
For severe PND cases that do not respond to other treatments, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended. ECT has proven effective for many women with severe PND, particularly those with psychotic symptoms or suicidal ideation.
Another option is brexanolone, an intravenous medication specifically approved for PND. While its use is currently limited to cases where other treatments have failed, brexanolone offers a rapid response and can significantly alleviate symptoms.
Early identification and treatment of postnatal depression are crucial. Healthcare providers, especially nurses, play a vital role in screening and supporting new mothers to ensure they receive timely and effective care. By understanding the signs of PND and being proactive in seeking help, mothers can greatly improve their outcomes and those of their babies.
In summary, while postnatal depression is a serious condition, a tailored combination of therapies can offer significant relief. With the right support and treatment, mothers can overcome PND and foster a healthy, loving relationship with their child.
*Source: Postpartum Depression – National Library of Medicine
Open up to a trusted friend, family member, or partner. Sharing how you feel can lift a weight off your shoulders and help you feel supported.
Prioritise self-care. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a relaxing bath, or yoga, these moments can recharge your energy and improve your mood.
Connect with other mums facing similar challenges. Support groups offer a space to share experiences and find encouragement.
Create a daily routine that includes baby care and personal time. Having structure can reduce stress and give you a sense of control.
Don’t hesitate to ask friends and family for support. Whether it’s childcare or household tasks, accepting help can ease your load and allow you time to recharge.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists are highly qualified, with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), to provide tailored support for individuals experiencing postnatal depression, helping them manage their emotions, adjust to parenthood, and improve overall well-being.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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