Crying and Unsettled Behaviour
All babies cry and have trouble settling sometimes. Understanding your baby’s ...
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Being a parent can be one of the most rewarding AND challenging roles you’ll take on in life.
Lack of sleep, uncertainty, always being on call… it’s easy to see how it can take a toll on your mental health and wellbeing.
But how do you know when you are no longer just tired or run-down, but experiencing something else?
Postnatal depression is the name given to depression that develops between one month and up to one year after the birth of a baby.
And it’s not just the mums! One in every 20 dads will also experience depression in that first year.
If you’re experiencing some of these signs it may be time to stop and consider your own mental health.
While it’s important to look after your new baby, it’s just as important to look after yourself too. Take the time to:
It's common to have good days and bad days when caring for a new baby. But if you've experienced some of the symptoms below for two weeks or more, it's important to seek some help.
Symptoms of postnatal depression include:
Panic attacks (racing heart, shortness of breath, shaking)
Feeling constantly sad, worried, or crying for no obvious reason
Frequent and abrupt mood swings
Thoughts of death or suicide
Persistent worrying, thoughts or fears about the wellbeing of the baby
Having thoughts of harming yourself, baby and/or other children
Feeling hopeless, helpless or worthless
Lack of interest in yourself and or your baby
Feeling low or numb
Feeling isolated, alone or disconnected from others
If you are at risk of immediate harm, seek help straight away by calling emergency services on 000.
It’s important to reach out for support as soon as you notice these changes, so you can reduce the impacts postnatal depression may have on you and your family.
If you find yourself lost, our trained counsellors are here to listen and provide support, no matter what issues you may be struggling with. Give us a call on 1300 30 1300 (QLD & NT).
Not in QLD or NT? Check out our list of Parentline services in your state or territory.
- Kate, mum of a nine-month old
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