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FAMiLy And FriEndS PND is a temporary condition. She will get better! the family should understand that the illness is a temporary one, and that with their help and support, the mother will recover. they should also realise that it may take a considerable period of time before she is completely better. Make sure that the depressed mother is receiving treatment for her depression from a doctor or mental health professional. if the treatment she is using is not working, encourage her to go back to the doctor to change it. it can be helpful if someone accompanies her when she sees the doctor. when she is feeling unwell, take on as much of the running of the household as she wants to give up. however, when she is feeling better let her do as much as she wants to. You may find that she has patches of good and bad days, this is very common with the illness. remember that depression is not a sign of weakness and remind her that what she is going through is okay and that she will get better. RECOGNISE THE GOOD JOB ShE iS doing This is the most traumatic adjustment in a woman's life, and it takes time. give as much encouragement as possible. Point out what she is doing right (most women with PND feel guilty if they are not enjoying their babies - most do a more than an adequate job of taking care of their babies). QUICK GUIDE TO IDENTIFYING PoStnAtAL dEPrESSion What to look for . . . • How does the mother look? • Is she taking care of herself? • Is she very restless? • Does she move very slowly? • Does she look sad and withdrawn? • Is she taking care of the baby properly? • Does she look at the baby, talk to him / her? • Is the baby thriving? • Is she enjoying the baby? • Ask her whether she is able to fall asleep and stay asleep as before. • Is she going to the hospital or clinic too often or too seldom? • Can you notice any problems with the baby? • Does she seem unwilling to go home? • How is she managing breast feeding? • Is she enjoying it? - Don't be afraid to ask. • What support does she have? • How is she getting along with her partner / baby's father? • Is she anxious all the time? Remember that these are only guidelines. if you have worries about the new mother, please refer her to a doctor or mental health professional. Alternatively, contact the Emotional Wellness Case Manager on 0860 100 544. SELF hELP the most important thing that you can do for yourself as a new mother is to believe that you will get better. you must have a great deal of patience and realise that recovery will take time. CHAPTER 3: TREATMENT OPTIONS 14

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