Trying to cope with baby blues, just need a bit of reassurance really

[Casey24]

Hello, I had my ds 11 days ago, and for the past few days I've noticed a real change in mood, which I'm putting down to baby blues - teary, anxious, irritable, and unable to sleep even when the baby is! and absolutely no appetite at all. This is my second child and I don't remember feeling this bad the first time round - I know it's all to be expected but I'm just worried it will develop into depression, which I've had before - how long does this usually last for? All coping tips welcome

Casey, I'm sorry that you're feeling so low. It's so sad when all you want to do is enjoy your new baby. I also had PND with my first and have it again with second child.

Oops - posted before I was finished.

Anyway, please speak to your HV about this, all your symptoms are classic PND. They will be able to help you get support sooner rather than later.

There's loads of support info online, but basically it boils down to is: accept help whenever it's offered, lower standards in terms of housework, try to get some time out, eat well (food is medicine) get some fresh air.

I really hope things improve for you soon. It's a tough enough time as it is.
There are loads of old support threads regarding PND and second children; the general sense is that things get better. Just take one day at a time.

Xxx

scaredy is right - take one day at a time, but more importantly you really must discuss this with your HV because, if she is as good as the one I had 18 years ago, she will keep an eye on you. Get in some help (mother? mother-in-law? a sixth-form student to help in evenings with eldest?) so that you have some time to yourself to get your act together. Don't worry about a tidy house, ask DP/DH for help and explain to him how you are feeling (show him this thread perhaps) and ask him to give you cuddles whenever you need them. I had PND with first and it was only when I had second that I realised just how ill I had been as I was completely fine with second (and with third).

If you can get out for a walk once a day (or every other day) then that will make you feel better, but it is difficult getting out with two small ones so only do that if you are up to it.

Don't try to achieve anything because then you cannot fail. Things will fall into place in their own time. But one day at a time is a good maxim.