Postnatal Depression
🚨 Symptoms
Persistent low mood, loss of interest, excessive fatigue (beyond normal newborn care), sleep disturbances (cannot sleep when baby sleeps), appetite changes, anxiety/panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, poor bonding with baby, thoughts of harming self or baby
🔍 Causes
Hormonal changes after birth, personal/family history of depression, stressful life events, lack of support, difficult birth experience, baby with health problems, previous mental health issues
💊 Treatment
Psychological therapies (CBT, IPT), antidepressants (SSRIs – safe in breastfeeding), social support, perinatal mental health services, mother and baby units if severe, peer support groups
📝 Nursing Care
Screen using Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, assess risk to mother and baby, provide non-judgmental support, educate on condition, facilitate access to specialist services, monitor for psychosis
Source: NHS Scotland. For educational purposes only.