Postnatal Depression

Symptoms of Postnatal Depression

The severity of PND depends on the number of symptoms, their intensity and the extent to which they interfere with normal functioning. PND tends to be characterized by a combination of the following symptoms. The combination and severity of symptoms will be different for every woman, resulting in many different appearances of PND.

• Sleep disturbance unrelated to baby's sleep needs
• Appetite disturbance
• Crying or not being able to cry
• Inability to cope
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Negative, morbid or obsessive thoughts
• Fear of being alone or fear of being with others
• Memory difficulties and loss of concentration
• Feeling guilty and inadequate
• Loss of confidence and self-esteem
• Thoughts of harm to self, baby or suicide

Some women sum it all up by saying "There is no joy in anything any more", and "I feel like I have lost myself".