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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    I’ve suffered with postnatal depression before, does this mean it will re occur?

    Related Topics
    Depression Mental Health Postnatal Depression
    I am a mother of 2 and I was diagnosed with postnatal depression when my eldest child was 3 months old. Since the birth I didn’t feel right in myself, I was teary and constantly tired. I didn't want to go anywhere or see anyone, all I wanted to do was be at home. I am pregnant again and wondering if there is a way I can prevent it happening this time round?
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    Dr Melanie Strang

    Counsellor

    There is a 40-50% chance that postnatal depression will re occur.
    There are things you can put in place to help reduce the chances of postnatal depression recurring.
    By this I mean, looking at your support network including friends and family and having a plan before the baby is born as to how those people around will be able to help you after the birth.
    It is also a good idea to see your GP before the baby is born and discuss together other resources which an be put in place to help prevent re occurance, such as seeing a counsellor or hooking up with a support group in your area.

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    Women's Health Queensland Wide

    Women's Health Queensland Wide provides free health information for Queensland women. View Profile

    Here  is an excellent resource that you might find helpful. it is good to share with partner and your family support.  just click on the link. http://www.womhealth.org.au/pregnancy-and-parenting/227-antenatal-and-postnatal-depression-booklet
    Brenda
    Women’s Health Educator
    Health Information Line, Women’s Health Queensland Wide
     
    Women living in Queensland can also call our Health Information Line - a free information and referral service for Queensland women - on 3839 9988 or 1800 017 676 (toll free outside Brisbane).
     
    Please note that all health information provided by Women’s Health Queensland Wide is subject to this disclaimer
     
     

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    Beverley Aronstan

    Psychologist

    I am a registered psychologist with many years of counselling experience in the field of relationships and fertility issues. In particular my focus is on … View Profile

    There is a risk of post natal depression re-occurring if this is your experience. However there are also things you can do to minimise or even prevent the re-occurrence. By being aware of the symptoms and helping those close to you to stay aware so that they can ensure that they help you with extra rest perhaps taking the new baby for a couple of hours a day or ensuring that you have adequate nutrition and can get out for some fresh air can be helpful. If the early intervention centre or midwives remain aware they can assist you. Having a counsellor that works in the field of perinatal health is helpful. 
    Recognising that you might need help and that this is okay. 
    Beyond Blue is an excellent resource
    Most important believe in yourself and know your limitations such as being able to reach out to your partner to do the night feeds or allow you some time with your elder child is good.
    Make plans together with your partner and family in advance

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    Beverley Aronstan

    Psychologist

    I am a registered psychologist with many years of counselling experience in the field of relationships and fertility issues. In particular my focus is on … View Profile

    You are a mother of 2 so I am taking it that you are pregnant with the third. You say you were diagnosed when your eldest was 3 months old. How did it go after the birth of your 2nd child?

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    beyondblue

    beyondblue is a national, independent, not-for-profit organisation working to address issues associated with depression, anxiety and related disorders in Australia.beyondblue is a bipartisan initiative of … View Profile

    It is true that tour risk of experiencing PND is higher if you have experienced depression (or PND) in the past, but also it's important to note that having had the experience before you will have a lot more awareness and information this time around. COPE: Centre of Perinatal Excellence is a one stop shop for information and ibcludes information about what puts women at risk http://cope.org.au/pre-pregnancy/preparing-pregnancy/risk/

    There are also lots of strategies to help you look after yourself, identify early signs and strategies to prevent PND reoccurring at www.cope.org.au 

    All the best. 

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    Beverley Aronstan

    Psychologist

    I am a registered psychologist with many years of counselling experience in the field of relationships and fertility issues. In particular my focus is on … View Profile

    Yes there is a chance that you could experience post natal depression again. However you will be prepared and recognise the signs as will your family. Please put yourself first and seek support networks such as family and friends as well as support groups so that you can take some precautions such as get enough rest and have enough positive and supportive people to help you. Also be in contact with a trusted GP and counsellor. Please put in place measures such as making your GP midwife or obstretician aware of the risk so that you can be monitored and receive intervention measures if necessary.  

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