All articles tagged with #postnatal depression
The article discusses the often-overlooked issue of post-natal depression in fathers, highlighting personal stories of men like Aled Edwards and Mark Williams who experienced severe mental health struggles after becoming fathers. It emphasizes the need for better support systems, awareness, and societal attitude shifts to address paternal mental health and prevent tragic outcomes like suicide.
A trial found that administering a low dose of esketamine, a potent form of ketamine, to new mothers immediately after childbirth reduced the risk of postnatal depression by about three-quarters. The study suggests that this medication, used as an anaesthetic and antidepressant, should be considered for new mothers showing symptoms of depression during pregnancy. Postnatal depression affects one in ten women after giving birth and can involve intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. Existing treatments for postnatal depression include talking therapy and traditional antidepressants, but esketamine could offer a more effective and faster-acting alternative.
Treating postnatal depression with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) not only benefits mothers but also improves child behavior, according to a study analyzing data from over 61,000 mothers and their children. The study found that SSRI treatment led to reduced maternal depression, improved partner relationships, and fewer child behavioral difficulties such as ADHD symptoms up to five years after childbirth. These findings challenge concerns about the long-term impact of SSRIs and suggest that they offer a net positive effect for families affected by postnatal depression.
The case of Lauren Dickason, a New Zealand doctor who murdered her three children, highlights the urgent need to address maternal mental illness. A report reveals that 11,000 women in New Zealand suffer from postnatal depression and/or anxiety each year, with many not meeting the threshold for assistance. Maternal mental illness is a serious issue, with suicide being the leading cause of maternal death in the country, disproportionately affecting wāhine Māori. The focus on the impact of a mother's mental health on her child often overshadows the importance of supporting mothers as individuals. It is crucial to provide safety nets, dismantle the idea of perfect motherhood, and prioritize the mental well-being of birthing parents.
Postnatal depression affects almost as many men as women, with some research estimating it occurs in up to 10 percent of fathers. Symptoms of postnatal depression may include low mood, lack of motivation, poor sleep, feeling guilty or worthless, poor concentration, changes in appetite or weight, fatigue, and thoughts of death or suicide. Seeking support from loved ones, friends, or a doctor is important, and there's nothing wrong with needing help. Mental health apps such as DadPad can also help navigate fatherhood.