Post partum depression

Just go hun, don't feel stupid. I became very down with my first, and it turned out to be two things - I actually had a thyroid condition post partum (very common) which made me down and incredibly anxious, tired, sleepless, etc. Simple medication made a huge difference.

I also went to a very good counsellor recommended by a friend, who helped me with the adjustment and with some old shit that was in the back of my head from childhood (cliché I know but it is also very common!)

I did not need antidepressants, but these two things made the world of difference. I now have baby no 2 and I am able to enjoy it so much more this time around.

As for work, the fear is worse than the reality, you'll find a routine and it'll be fine. Use the time you have left to try to improve your mental health, and get the hang of starting baby on solids. I found each small change to the baby routine stressful so start it asap is my advice.

Doctor, blood test, appointment with a counsellor, go from there. You're doing great xx

Thank you xx

Also not selfish, you need to look after yourself. I had a problem with not caring for myself enough with my first baby, if you only spend your time and energy being mom, it's easy to lose a sense of yourself and feel down and depressed.

Even simple things can help. I asked my husband for set, regular time for myself. Sometimes this was just an hour in the evening, but it was a really valuable break. Sometimes it was a day to go off and see friends, do something I loved. It depends whether you're breastfeeding to some extent but it's really important to make some time to be you, without baby, and it is not selfish. You will feel better for it and return a better mum and wife, by caring for your own needs and not just other people's. Not selfish.

We go from having all the time and flexibility to be able to 'be ourselves' so suddenly being tied to a baby 24/7, as lovely as they are, we still actually need to do some things for ourselves in order to stay happy and healthy.

You can do this xx

Was I seriously the only person to reply on this?? You're not alone hun 😘💓

I know you would wonder what the point of this app is xx

Babycentre.co.uk has a really good forum, ok it's mostly UK mums on there but you would definitely get more response there if you wanted more feedback!! Xx

I hope you went to doctor hun. absoultely nothing to ever be embarrassed about. if you ever need to chat I'm available x

Hi, You’re not alone. While my mental health has been alright (I think), I can definitely relate to the struggle, anxiety, mood swings, and even resenting your partner sometimes! It takes a lot of adjusting. Communication is key, we had a few honest and tearful conversations in the beginning and it really helped us. It’s not selfish nor stupid if you reach out for help. Maybe start by contacting your public health nurse? I‘m happy to listen if you‘re still having bad days, which we all have 😊❤️

Hi Kate. How are you feeling right now? You are not alone in this. Things get better with the time. 🙏🌹

That's great to hear. 🙏❤️