Helping a friend with Post Natal Depression

[missbryan]

Dear all, I feel a bit of a fraud joining as I have no children myself - but my best friend has just had her second child and now been diagnosed with PND.

First baby was a dream, second has screamed a lot and teamed with a 2 1/2 year old toddler and husband who works very long hours she is struggling to cope. She has been prescribed medication.

Husband has asked her friends to contact her through him as she is so low. She turns 30 in Sept too which is weighing on her mind.

I want to help, but no idea how??? just turn up and take the toddler off her hands? send cards/ flowers etc, let her be for a while??

Any advice would be so fantastic, thank you!

[natsyloo]

Hi missbryan, I'd say there's no formulaic way to respond - just by being there if she needs support is a great start.

Ask what works best for her - hands on help is great, as is just geenral emotional support. I'd say she'll prob take the lead if she wants to talk to you about it...she may not feel in a place to do so.

Just by being kind and understanding she will value you as a good friend at a difficult time :-)