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Depression
During and After Pregnancy: A Resource for Women, Their
Families, and Friends
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How Can Perinatal Depression Affect My Baby and My
Family?
The symptoms of Perinatal Depression often create
a very difficult situation for families. For infants,
the effects of Perinatal Depression can be serious.
There is a greater chance of babies arriving too small
or too early, or having problems in learning and behavior
as they grow older. Older children suffer when they
lose the attention and support of their mother. Loved
ones suffer because they don’t know what to do
or how to help. Other family members are often called
upon to fill the gap. Because Perinatal Depression affects
the entire family, it is critical that family members
recognize the symptoms and help their loved one seek
help.
Advice for Fathers, Family, and Friends
If you know a woman who has the symptoms of Perinatal
Depression, this is how you can help.
As a Spouse or Partner:
- Encourage her to seek help. This is the quickest
path to recovery.
- Offer support and encouragement. Your positive actions
and words can reduce some of her suffering.
- Listen. Her feelings are real. Let her express
them to you.
- Allow her to focus on her own needs. Physical and
social activities help women suffering from Perinatal
Depression feel stronger, more relaxed, and better
about themselves.
- Take time for yourself. It is important for spouses
and partners to continue with their work, hobbies,
and outside relationships.
As a Friend or Family Member:
- Ask the mother how you can help, including baby-sitting
and house cleaning.
- Let her know you are there for her, even if she
doesn’t like talking.
- Understand that the father may also feel stressed
from the changes that come with being a new father
or by a partner who is suffering from Perinatal Depression.
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Meeting with my support group
is the best part of the week.
When I found women going through
the same things as me, I didn’t
feel so lonely any more. Now we
are moving forward together, hand
in hand. |
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