Opening up about depression - Galway Independent

Home

Sections

Living

Opening up about depression

Written by Administrator

Wednesday, 11 July 2007

Article Index
Opening up about depression
Page 2

Page 2 of 2

AWARE in Galway has now branched out from the city, with meetings being held all over the county, including Loughrea and Tuam.

Depression can occur without any defining reason or it can be brought on by an event such as childbirth. Many women suffer 'the baby blues' during the first weeks after childbirth. Giving birth can be a highly emotional and physically traumatic experience. The sudden drop in hormone levels following birth can leave new mums feeling emotionally and physically drained. Symptoms include feeling weepy, hypersensitive, anxious and alone in the world. These feelings will usually pass, with some rest and physical and moral support from a partner, family and friends.

If your 'baby blues' won't lift, you may be one of the ten per cent of women who go on to develop postnatal depression. Postnatal depression usually begins two to eight weeks following birth, but can sometimes appear up to six months or even a year after birth. Unfortunately, many women experience this form of depression without even being aware of the symptoms or the fact that postnatal depression is a real illness.

New mums who feel tearful and fearful that they can not cope for an extended period should contact their family doctor or public health nurse, who will be able to advise them as to the best course of action.

In the past, depression had been dismissed and stigmatised but it is a medical condition and can be treated. For more information on all types of depression, contact Tony at AWARE on 091-847003.

Comments (0) »