Kildare mental health nurse gives new mums advice on postnatal depression

Becoming a mother is one of the greatest life changing experiences and challenges in a woman’s life. It is often portrayed as a magical experience filled with joy and wonder. But, for many, the reality can have a major effect on their mental health before and after giving birth.

At least one in four new mums struggle to cope with mental health difficulties and find it frightening to acknowledge or share their worries. Pregnancy and childbirth bring a range of mental health changes that are as natural as the physical adjustments mother’s bodies experience.

Understanding the importance of prioritising mental health during this time is essential. Women who have experienced trauma, anxiety or depression prior to becoming a mother may experience memories and concerns from the past, which can become recurrent and frightening.

Sometimes, mothers can experience difficulties following a birth that did not go as they had planned or anticipated.

While post-natal depression is the most talked about postnatal mental health problem, anxiety during pregnancy and post birth is almost as common.

Symptoms can include feeling nervous, tense or fearing the worst. Mums with anxiety can experience intrusive thoughts or images, repetitive negative thoughts and may dwell on negative situations. They often find it difficult to concentrate and can suffer anxiety/panic attacks.

Postnatal Mental health illness can be very frightening and lonely. Mothers may feel that they are the only ones who feel this way. However, anyone, regardless of age, background, relationship or financial status, can face a mental health issue.

The first step on the path to recovery for mothers who are struggling is to share how they are feeling. This often feels like a weight has been lifted and removes some of the isolation associated with postnatal mental health challenges.

It's normal to experience a flood of emotions after giving birth — joy, anxiety, exhaustion, and even sadness. It’s common to feel overwhelmed while caring for a baby and recovering from childbirth. Many women experience the “baby blues” in the days following the birth. However, if sadness is persistent, severe, or accompanied by feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness or detachment, reaching out for professional help is essential.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Therapists and counsellors specializing in postnatal and pregnancy related mental health can offer you professional support and tools to cope with your feelings.

Support is available through GPs, public health nurses and the perinatal mental health services at the hospital where the baby was born.

Professional guidance will support you to develop skills to manage your feelings and worries. Remember the mothering journey is unique for each woman, and taking care of your mental health is an ongoing process. It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions; what matters is how you choose to manage them. By nurturing your mental health while caring for your newborn, you can foster a positive environment for both you and your baby.

- Annette Parker is a registered Mental Health Nurse, registered Public Health Nurse and a practising Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist (CBT) specialising in women’s mental health during pregnancy and the postnatal period and provides support to women experiencing fertility challenges. She has dual Master of Science degrees in perinatal mental health and Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy (CBT). She works in person with clients in Kildare and Dublin and online with those outside of those areas. [email protected] Tel 087 7980874