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Original poster

Postpartum depression

6 replies

Mummabear10032021 · 02/11/2023 23:33

Hello, has anyone ever successfully treated their postnatal anxiety/depression without medication? I had a baby 4 months ago and I'm on and off suffering a bit. It's more anxiety than depression. I'll be fine for a few weeks and then I'll have a really bad week. I suffered really bad during my pregnancy and after I gave birth but improved a few weeks after that. Some days it creeps back in. I don't want to go on medication. Anything that would help? Thanks

OP posts:
Kielyflower · 03/11/2023 06:52

Are you getting out for walks in the fresh air? Exercise has always helped me with my mental health.

Talking with other new mums?

Also trying to do things that help you relax whether that’s listening to claiming music, having a bath etc. It doesn’t sound much but it all helps.

Is your DP around and supportive?

Kielyflower · 03/11/2023 06:54

Things will get better, but you have my sympathy as this is a tough time. Keep being kind to yourself xx

ECPCR2 · 03/11/2023 07:08

So sorry you're having a tough time.

Can you refer yourself in (or get your GP to) to the perinatal mental health team? I did this when I had DS and had a psychotherapist for sessions for months who gave me time to talk, activities to try and general therapy based talking support. I know these services are stretched in most places but it's worth a try. Often the IAPT services won't accept people in perinatal period so the specialist team is the way to go.

My GP and the psych team did really want me to try medication too (I'd come off it when TTC) but were supportive of me giving talking therapy a chance first and thankfully it was a real success.

MariaVT65 · 03/11/2023 07:25

I had it really badly due to birth trauma followed by sleep deprivation while in lockdown. I would say get out of the house as much as possible and meet up with people. Also refer yourself to talking therapies. And try to get more sleep if you can get people to help you.

I also did eventually go on sertraline when my son was 14 months to help my anxiety and sleep, and did help. I was only on it for about 2-3 months so it can help without being on it for longer.

Kielyflower · 03/11/2023 13:02

MariaVT65 · 03/11/2023 07:25

I had it really badly due to birth trauma followed by sleep deprivation while in lockdown. I would say get out of the house as much as possible and meet up with people. Also refer yourself to talking therapies. And try to get more sleep if you can get people to help you.

I also did eventually go on sertraline when my son was 14 months to help my anxiety and sleep, and did help. I was only on it for about 2-3 months so it can help without being on it for longer.

Good advice about getting out of the house etc

Just for anyone reading the thread, I’m fairly sure that from a clinical perspective anti-depressants like Sertraline should be taken for a minimum of 6 months after you start to feel better, assuming they are working well for you of course. Always best to take advice and support from doctor.

Shilpa1998 · 16/05/2024 16:58

Any idea what kind of meditation will help with postnatal depression please?

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