How to reduce risk of post natal depression

[Maz91]

Just that, really. I had a 2 year stretch of depression from 2017 to 2019 and finally in a good place right now but quite anxious about after birth...especially if we are still in partial lockdown or whatever this is now. I've had some lows during all the covid chaos due to bereavement and isolation but I've managed it and it's not been like before. I'm just wondering if there are specific things I can do either now or after birth to reduce the risk for myself?

TIA

@Maz91 - I had PND after both of my children and the trigger both times was undeniably related to sleep deprivation. Sleep is a huge factor in how we recharge our brains and batteries. My first two DDs were great nappers but such poor night time sleepers. I no suffered immensely from this and my PND came raging in on me around month six PP. We ended up getting sleep consultant and I had night nurses so I could heal.

Wishing you well!!

Time for u and also getting out and about. I have a history of depression so have been Scared about it rearing its ugly head from having a lockdown baby. He is 5 weeks old now and although it has bee tougher tha. Normal this is my fourth iv been doing all I can to counteract any negativity. Me and baby in the pram go for a walk few times a week without my other 3. I also go do the shopping once a week to get out away from everyone and also go to my mums once or twice a week when my partner is at work to sit in the garden social distance and have a natter it really helps getting out. Oh and tip nighttime get clothes ready for u and get dressed first thing in the morning I find if I don't then I will stay in pj's all day not do anything or go anywhere and feel crappy x

I just wanted to say that I have had bouts of depression all throughout my adult life and I’m currently 19 weeks pregnant.

I asked my GP for some support and for various other reasons I have just had an assessment with the consultant psychiatrist who specialises in Perinatal MH. I told him that I was concerned that I would suffer from post-natal depression due to my history of depression - he actually reassured me that it’s no more likely I will suffer than anyone else (who’s not suffered depression) although I still worry it will happen, it’s good to have some reassurance from a professional that it may not actually happen.

As other posters have said though getting out and about, allowing yourself time to yourself etc will all help.
Could you mention it your partner/close family that you are concerned so that they know to keep an eye on you and that they are aware of the signs?

I would also chat to your midwife if you’re concerned about this, they should then make a note and hopefully you’ll get a little more support after the birth.

Apparently breastfeeding can help reduce PND because of the higher and regular amount of oxytocin being produced. Lots of skin to skin time can also help for the same reason. Depending on the social distancing situation you could arrange to go for a regular walk with a friend or family member. That's what I'm planning to do to keep up some sort of interaction, even if it's at a distance. It's also something nice to look forward to (even more so after being in lockdown).

Thanks all so much for your responses, they've been really helpful and reassuring. I've had a few chats with DH about it and he knows what to look out for and the kind of support and routine I might need. I think giving my mum a heads up will be useful as I know she will want to be helpful by doing lots for me e.g. running errands etc but as many of you have said, it's important I am up and about myself too. My mum doesn't actually know about my previous struggles with depression- just DH and a close friend as I didn't want to deal with an over reaction from my mum.

Thanks again, all!