Postnatal Depression

Postnatal depression is often confused with ‘the baby blues’, which occurs around the third or fourth day after birth and can result in a mother crying, feeling irritable, experiencing anxiety or insomnia — and is a completely normal reaction to the trauma of labour and birth. At first a new mother can feel exhausted, confused and somewhat overwhelmed upon returning home with her new baby. These feelings generally pass within a few weeks, as the new mother finds her composure once more and experiences a sense of balance once again.

However for some mothers with postnatal depression, the situation does not improve, and they can find themselves having these negative experiences  last for months and even years if left untreated. Research shows post natal depression is linked to certain factors, ranging from feelings of inadequacy to the levels of support a mother receives in caring for her baby, to the significant hormonal changes that occur after childbirth.

In Ireland PND is heavily stigmatised  which can result in women feeling isolated and ashamed of having the condition and as a result they don’t talk about it. If you find yourself in this position please reach out and seek support, rather than remaining isolated in your turmoil. Childbirth is a monumental experience that needs to be given the time and space so that it can be understood, and processed. The therapists at Caring Space can help to integrate these changes into your life, enabling you to take control of your life once more.