Antenatal Depression
🚨 Symptoms
Persistent low mood, loss of interest/pleasure, fatigue, sleep disturbances (other than pregnancy-related), appetite changes, excessive anxiety about baby, poor attachment to baby, thoughts of self-harm
🔍 Causes
Hormonal changes, personal/family history of depression, stressful life events, lack of support, unplanned pregnancy, relationship difficulties, previous pregnancy loss, history of abuse/trauma
💊 Treatment
Psychological therapies (CBT, IPT), antidepressants (SSRIs – balancing risks/benefits with fetal effects), social support, mindfulness, lifestyle modifications, specialist perinatal mental health services
📝 Nursing Care
Screen for depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), assess suicide risk, provide emotional support, educate on treatment options, coordinate with mental health services, monitor for postnatal worsening
Source: NHS Scotland. For educational purposes only.