Postnatal Depression - can it happen to ANYONE ?

Hi,

A close friend of mine is about to give birth in May.

I have warned her of postnatal depression and she is well aware and prepared for it.
She is a funny, bright, energetic, smart and cheerful girl 95% of the time and I told her I don't think she'll get it because of her positive personality. So my question is can it happen to ANYONE regardless?

I have a 15.5 month old and i did have the blues for the first 5 months. All I wanted was peace and quiet, but i know it's not for everyone.

So, how can I help her IF she ends up having it? Offer help? Leave her alone? Take her out with bub?

Hi,

A close friend of mine is about to give birth in May.

I have warned her of postnatal depression and she is well aware and prepared for it.
She is a funny, bright, energetic, smart and cheerful girl 95% of the time and I told her I don't think she'll get it because of her positive personality. So my question is can it happen to ANYONE regardless?

I have a 15.5 month old and i did have the blues for the first 5 months. All I wanted was peace and quiet, but i know it's not for everyone.

So, how can I help her IF she ends up having it? Offer help? Leave her alone? Take her out with bub?

I think it can happen to anyone but is more likely to occur in situations where there is a lack of support, unrealistic expectations, a perfectionist type personality, history of depression.

I dont think you should assume it will happen and I wouldnt even discuss it with a pregnant friend, this is her moment and she should expect it to be wonderful. Its really a bridge that should be crossed when you come to it.

I think when it comes to offering helpful advice to a pregnant friend you should offer if asked - not because you think you know something she doesnt because you've had a baby and shouldnt assume that her experience will be like yours. Realise you want to help but I dont think you need to warn her about PND, when you are pregnant you dont need warnings from people, you need support and encouragement and most of all to listen... not give advice, however well meaning.

I think it can happen to anyone but is more likely to occur in situations where there is a lack of support, unrealistic expectations, a perfectionist type personality, history of depression.

I dont think you should assume it will happen and I wouldnt even discuss it with a pregnant friend, this is her moment and she should expect it to be wonderful. Its really a bridge that should be crossed when you come to it.

I think when it comes to offering helpful advice to a pregnant friend you should offer if asked - not because you think you know something she doesnt because you've had a baby and shouldnt assume that her experience will be like yours. Realise you want to help but I dont think you need to warn her about PND, when you are pregnant you dont need warnings from people, you need support and encouragement and most of all to listen... not give advice, however well meaning.

Thanks for your replies.

HappyHead - Yes she asked me to let her know of my own experience so i told her my story and how I felt at the time.

This whole thing came about when she told me her other friend told her to 'expect' to have it. I was so shocked to hear of that. I didn't think it was nice to tell a pregnant lady to 'expect' it. Hence this friend of mine came for some heads up.


Astaaria - i'm look out for changes in her.

I didnt have it with my 1st but this time around I did/do it is the worst feeling in the world u cant describe it or understand it enough if u havent been thru it!!