Postnatal mental health - experience??

[user1482347790]

Hi all

Was hoping to hear from others about their experience of postnatal mental health. I’m not due until September but have been advised that because I’ve suffered depression and anxiety in the past that I run a higher risk of postnatal depression and / or postnatal psychosis! This is obviously very frightening and I wondered if there’s Mums out there who had depression or anxiety before pregnancy but didn’t suffer after the baby was born?

I’d prefer no scary stories if possible!

Thank you in advance :) xx

Me! I’ve suffered with depression on and off since 18, and had a period of very severe and debilitating anxiety for about 12 months the year before falling pregnant. I dreaded PND and being a super anxious Mum. I had usual post baby blues, and was very tired and emotional in the months after birth, but I didn’t have depression and my anxiety has been totally under control. Childbirth and having a young baby just didn’t trigger depression and anxiety for me, despite my history. 18 months in and I’d say I’m in the best place of my life, mentally. Best of luck!!

Thanks for your message DrG13! You don’t get a lot of replies on “mental health” posts so I really appreciate it.

I’m so relieved to hear your experience! I know the doctors need to monitor people if they’ve had a history of depression and anxiety but for me it just raises fears that I’ll be really ill after having the baby. Fantastic news that you actually feel better than ever - gives me hope it’ll be the same for me!

Thanks again for replying xx

Just be prepared for 'the baby blues' to feel a lot more severe than that. I found it frighteningly intense because I wasn't expecting it. It did pass within a few days though. Not trying to scare you, just reassure you in advance that you may feel pretty awful but it's totally normal and will pass quickly. Lots of cuddles and sleeping whenever you can will help.