Post natal depression... Holistic help?

[DeborahBinns]

Hi, my name is Debbie and I'm a bit lost, would appreciate some help and direction!

A close friend gave birth to a beautiful baby boy in January. I was terribly busy with work in February (which I feel very guilty about now) but we managed to arrange to have lunch together in early March (pre-Covid madness) where she appeared withdrawn, tired and just generally a bit down. I tried cheering her up but she told me she was just tired, not being a mother myself I put it down to night feeds and sleepless nights etc.

Since lockdown, we have been speaking on the phone and she recently disclosed to me she thinks she is suffering from postnatal depression. I want to help but don't know how to, she has always been a bit wary of taking drugs needlessly (though not an anti vaxxer) and I wondered if any kind souls on here could point me in the direction of holistic treatments for pnd? Are they effective?

Any help would be greatly appreciated xx

Taking ADs for PNI isn't taking drugs unnecessarily though OP, there is a very clear need.

I would keep on support in your friend but also encourage her to speak to her GP and HV.

The GP may or may not prescribe ADs and may or may not prescribe CBT, either or both are very effective for PNI. The GP might also check her vitamin and iron levels.

The HV may know if some groups running locally for other Mums who are struggling, out local group is running virtual meetings currently.

Has she told her DH how she's feeling too?

Thank you