Post Natal Depression Psychologist Brisbane

What is it

Having a baby can bring a great deal of challenge, fatigue, and adjustment. Additionally, the majority of mothers (up to 80%) experience the baby blues within ten days of the birth of their baby. This is triggered by hormonal changes following birth and typically involves tearfulness, irritability, emotional sensitivity, mood swings, and feeling overwhelmed. It is important that women seek social support while experiencing the baby blues, which will usually pass within a few days.

For some women (up to one in seven), they will experience difficult feelings that last longer (a couple of weeks or more), are likely to be more intense, and have a greater impact on their lives than the baby blues. These are signs of postnatal depression.

What it includes

Post-natal depression can be brought on by a combination of factors and does not mean that you are a bad mother. Typically, symptoms of post-natal depression start between one month and twelve months post-birth and can include:

• Feeling sad, low, flat, and/or irritable
• Feeling hopeless, helpless, and/or worthless
• Excessive worry
• Not wanting to see people, go out, or talk to people
• No longer enjoying activities that were previously pleasurable
• Inability or low motivation to carry out daily tasks, including caring for the baby
• Changes in appetite and hunger
• Changes in sleep (too much or too little, not explained by caring for the baby)
• Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby or wanting to run away and escape. If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby, seek help immediately. (https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/get-immediate-support)

Women can also experience these symptoms of depression during their pregnancy. This is called antenatal depression.

Pregnancy, birth, and adjustment to parenting can trigger a range of emotional experiences, and it’s normal to find this challenging at times. However, if you feel that your wellbeing is being negatively impacted, it might be a sign that you could benefit from professional support.

How can a psychologist help with Post Natal Depression in Brisbane

Post-natal depression is treatable, and you don’t have to work through it on your own. Research shows that seeing a psychologist can help reduce symptoms and improve your wellbeing. Psychological treatment will generally include learning more about your condition and learning how to approach your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in more effective ways. You may be eligible to receive a Medicare rebate for these sessions; this can be assessed by your treating GP.

If you feel you may hurt yourself or your baby, seek help immediately.(https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/get-immediate-support)

If you require additional information, please call our office at 07 3256 6320. Our mental health-focused reception staff will be only too happy to assist you with your enquiry about our service and can suggest the most suitable Psychologist for your concern.