ANTENATAL DEPRESSION IN PREGNANCY

Most of us are well aware of postnatal depression and the associated symptoms, but a lot of people are still unaware of the effects antenatal depression can have. When you fall pregnant your body is put under immense stress, causing your hormones to work overtime. Not only does this lead to a range of physical symptoms (including morning sickness) it can also lead to the amplification of certain emotions.

ANTENATAL DEPRESSION IN PREGNANCY

When you begin to feel stressed it's these hormones that can, in some cases, lead to antenatal depression.

By understanding the causes, symptoms and treatments of antenatal depression you will be better informed and able to reach out if necessary.

Depression in Pregnancy

Causes of antenatal depression

What causes depression differs from person to person, and sadly there is rarely one single cause. The following list contains some of the more common causes of antenatal depression:

1. Hormonal changes - sometimes the simple upset of your body's hormone balance is enough to trigger depression.
2. Relationship issues - perhaps your partner isn't as supportive as you hoped, or maybe you're going through this alone, either way relationship problems can often spark feelings of depression.
3. Financial worries - concerns over the amount of money you'll need to raise a baby is a common worry among expectant mothers.
4. Despair over morning sickness - for some, this symptom of pregnancy is debilitating and can even lead to hospitalization, leading to feelings of hopelessness and depression.
5. Lack of sleep - pregnancy related insomnia and general exhaustion could lead you to over think situations and magnify negative emotions.
6. Family issues - when you become pregnant a spotlight is often shone on your own family life and previous rifts and tensions can become exaggerated.

Hormonal Changes

Symptoms of antenatal depression

There are likely to be times during your pregnancy when you feel down and unable to cope. While this may be common, it does not mean you need to suffer in silence. For some, these periods pass after a good chat with your other half, but for others it can turn into more than a 'blue day' and become antenatal depression.

The following symptoms are common in those suffering from depression during pregnancy, if you are experiencing similar feelings it may be worth speaking to your GP who can advise you what to do next.

1. Feeling tearful - your emotions will be running high due to your hormones during pregnancy regardless, but if you are feeling more tearful than expected, it may be a sign that you're not coping.
2. Feeling numb/empty - for some the implications of pregnancy are too overwhelming and the mind switches off. This may lead you to feel a numbness or emptiness at a time when you are expected to be overcome with joy.
3. Guilt/shame - there are a lot of expectations associated with pregnancy, and when you don't feel what you are expected to feel, it can lead to intense feelings of guilt and even shame for having negative thoughts.
4. Isolation - this can be especially true if your friends have not had children or if you come from an emotionally closed family. Feeling alone in your pregnancy often evokes feelings of panic and depression.
5. Insomnia - many women find it hard to sleep during pregnancy due to bodily changes, but for some it is a busy mind keeping them awake. This feeling of not being able to switch off and rest can lead to exhaustion, exaggerating negative emotions.

Feeling tearful

Tips to manage with depression during pregnancy

If you are experiencing symptoms of depression during your pregnancy it is recommended that you seek professional help from your local healthcare provider. The following tips should also help you to manage with symptoms of depression.

Exercise - when you have the all clear from your doctor, participating in light exercise such as antenatal yoga will increase your energy levels and boost production of 'feel-good' dopamine hormones.

Communicate with your place of work - working throughout pregnancy can increase stress levels, so be sure to keep an open dialogue with your boss regarding your pregnancy. Be sure to inform them that you may have to take a lighter workload and that you may need to cut down your hours.

Nap when you can - if you are struggling to sleep at night it can be helpful to take 20 minute cat-naps throughout the day to revive you.

Yoga is Miracles in Pregnancy 

Take care of yourself - this is the time to put yourself and your health first. Treat yourself to long baths, massages and nutritious food.

Get support wherever you can - this may come from your partner, friends, family, counsellor or support group. Ask for help when you are struggling - nursery decorating parties can be a fun way to make a time consuming job less stressful.

Be Happy in Pregnancy

Take notes - if you are suffering from 'pregnancy brain' it can be hard to keep track of things like appointments, errands and birthdays. To help you keep on top of things, try keeping a notepad with you at all times and jot down important dates and things to remember.

Practice saying no - pregnancy is often a time when you come face to face with your physical and mental limitations. Even if you are known as the ever-helpful friend who says yes to everything, now is the time to start saying no and priorities yourself over others.

Learn relaxation techniques - this can simply be a case of breathing deeply when you feel anxious or taking it one step further with yoga or meditation. Find something you can incorporate into your daily life to help reduce stress levels.

How can a counsellor help with depression  during pregnancy?

If you feel you are suffering from antenatal depression or anxiety it is essential that you seek help. As tempting as it may be to bury your head in the sand and ignore these feelings, dealing with them now will save you a lot of time, energy and heartache later. It also means you will experience a happier, more relaxed pregnancy which can only benefit your child.

A qualified counsellor can provide space for you to vent your concerns or frustrations in a safe, non-judgmental environment. They will also be able to talk you through your feelings so you better understand why they are occurring, as well as offering coping mechanisms and relaxation techniques.