Your questions answered by Elaine Hanzak of Greatvine.com
I’m pregnant and thought I would be ‘blooming’ but instead I just feel so depressed. I don’t want to take drugs which might harm my baby – what can I do?
Firstly you are not alone feeling like this, as studies show around 13% of pregnant women suffer some form of mental health problems. There are no definite causes although hormonal changes, a family history of depression, pregnancy problems and difficulty in conceiving, past abuse and major stresses are some of the risk factors.
Mood swings
Mood swings are part of pregnancy but if you are constantly feeling sad, having sleep and eating problems, very irritable and anxious then I would advise you to seek help and not suffer in silence.
It is important to talk to someone about how you are feeling – there is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. Tell your GP, health visitor, or midwife.
They may be able to recommend you have some counselling or talking therapy and refer you as appropriate. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), which helps to change negative thinking patterns, may be useful. There are some antidepressants, which are considered to be safe to take during pregnancy and your GP could advise on them.
Pregnancy depression support
It is also important to build up a support structure of family and friends during pregnancy and for after the baby is born to give you emotional and practical support:
- Talking to others either face-to-face or online is a good way to help ease your anxieties.
- Exercise helps in reducing depressive symptoms so find a form that you enjoy, e.g. walking, Pilates, or even better if you can find another mum-to-be as a buddy.
- A good, balanced diet of small regular meals will help balance your blood sugar levels, and therefore moods. Relaxation activities, such as crafts and massage may also help, indulge in them guilt-free!
- Other anxiety relieving and relaxation techniques such as meditation, reflexology can be useful too and regular periods of rest are also important.
You must get help as soon as possible so you can enjoy the rest of your pregnancy and remember that antenatal depression is not forever and you will get better.
Elaine Hanzak
Following her own painful experience and recovery from the most severe form of post-natal depression, Elaine Hanzak advises mothers, health professionals and family support groups worldwide regarding principles of care for sufferers and approaches to treatment for post-natal depression. Elaine’s empathy and practical techniques have helped hundreds of women on the road to recovery. For individual advice and support from Elaine, book a private call at www.greatvine.com/elaine_hanzak
* The information in these answers is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or treatment by a Health Care Professional. If you are worried, please consult your HCP.
For help with prenatal depression, speak with Elaine Hanzak-Gott and other parenting experts at Greatvine.com
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