Help with Friend Who has Server Postnatual Depression

[MigGril]

Wasn't quit sure where to post this but though some other parents may have some experances.

I've just found out a friend who I don't know that well. Has just been diagnosed with server postnatual depression. I was wondering from any off you who've maybe been through this, if there is anything that I could do that may help her.

She has a young toddler and baby to look after, has always been quit shy. Which is probably why I don't know her that well dispite seeing her weekly. I don't want to seem pushy just want to help if I can.

That's really kind of you I reckon.

Is she having medication or counselling? Because she may start to feel a bit better when that starts and then you can ask her to think if there's anything you can do - at the moment she may just feel too hopelss to think straight.

She may get tired a lot and need someone to have the kids while she naps. Or she may need someone to chat to and be girlie with.

I guess everyone is different so it's hard without knowing her. But those are my thoughts and experiences.

what a nice friend

I suffered from PND-it was awful. I cried at everything and just felt so alone. I just wanted someone there with me all the time to keep me company. But i also didn't want anyone to come round because i knew as soon as they left I'd feel worse. It's a really weird
feeling. But everyone's different.

She's lucky to have someone who cares so much!

How did you find out she has PND? If she didn't tell you directly, it may be awakward to just bring it up out of the blue and offer 'help'. I know I was very sensntive to other people's views of me when I had PND.

However, I was also desperate for someone to reach out and be nice to me .

If you don't know her that well, I would pop a card in the post or drop her a text and say something along the lines of 'Would love to see you soon. Maybe I could pop over and bring cake and we could have a chat? Text me and let me know when you are up to it?'.

I second reasonable's idea. I had bad PND too, and didn't want to be alone during the day, but also didn't want people to visit in case they notice my slatternly housekeeping. But if someone brought cake and smiled and didn't look behind the sofa at the washing, I'd have quite liked that.

I had really bad depression when kids were young. Anyone who didn't judge negatively and was a friendly smiley presence was such a boost. I reckon encouragement, positive words, fairly regular visits and no judgement can only help. You probably help already more than you know.