What can they do about antenatal depression?

[yoghurttops]

Everytime I see my midwife I want to tell her that I think I’m struggling but I can’t seem to get the words out during appointments. I’ve told her about my physical struggles.

I think a part of me thinks it’s pointless as what do they do if you think you have antenatal depression?

I just want to stay at home, have lost interest in socialising and I get this feeling that I’m making a huge mistake becoming a mum and I don’t really feel happy - it’s so annoying because people around me are excited and MN are positive about new pregnancies but I can’t seem to seek help. I had PTSD with my first 9 years ago but that was undiagnosed. I love being a mum so I’m not sure why I feel this way.

What support do you receive when you feel so low?

I’m sorry you’re going through this. Please speak to your midwife or GP as soon as possible. There are various options from talking therapy to medication to specialist referral.

Please tell your midwife. This is more common than realised and there is help out there. They will first offer you less invasive therapies like CBT and other forms of support and you will be fast tracked in pregnancy, if that doesn't help there is always medication. X

Absolutely tell them. I came off my antidepressants when TTC. My mental health decline through the first and second trimester and reaching out to my midwife got me CBT, you go straight to the top of the waiting list if you are pregnant. My midwife also was very helpful in supporting me to make an informed decision about returning to my medication while pregnant, and I'm really glad I did. My 6month old little girl is snoozing next to me and I'm so glad I took action before she arrived.

Thanks all. My next appointment is next week. I’m sure I’ll pluck up the courage to mention it.

Id hate to go through PND again if there are ways I can prevent it now.

If you find it difficult to say in person, have a think about sending your midwife an email explaining how you're feeling before your appointment and then she can discuss it with you more when you see her x

Just here to say your not on your own. I'm utterly miserable while pregnant with a much wanted child. I just want her here then I think I will be okay but for now I just want to be in bed and cry 😢

I second writing it down. I have in the past written my problem out and then just handed the letter to my GP as soon as I sat down.

Thanks all. I spoke to my midwife (right at the end of the appointment) and she was very supportive and referred me to therapy in the same week. I probably feared judgement but realised it was all in my head and they do want to help.