Post-Natal depression Hypnotherapy Brisbane

1. What is post-natal depression?
Post-natal depression (also called postpartum depression) is a type of mood disorder that affects some parents after childbirth, involving persistent feelings of sadness, exhaustion, hopelessness, and difficulty bonding with the baby.

2. How is post-natal depression different from "baby blues"?
The "baby blues" are mild mood swings, irritability, and tearfulness that usually resolve within two weeks after birth. Post-natal depression is more intense, lasts longer, and often needs professional support to heal.

3. What causes post-natal depression?
Causes can include hormonal changes, emotional stress, sleep deprivation, traumatic birth experiences, history of depression or anxiety, relationship challenges, and the overwhelming demands of new parenthood.

4. What are common symptoms of post-natal depression?
Symptoms include persistent sadness, lack of interest in the baby, feelings of guilt or failure, extreme fatigue, withdrawal from loved ones, irritability, anxiety, changes in appetite, and trouble sleeping (even when the baby sleeps).

5. Can fathers and partners experience post-natal depression too?
Yes. Partners can also experience post-natal depression, often due to the pressures of new parenthood, changes in relationship dynamics, and feelings of helplessness or being overwhelmed.

6. Can hypnotherapy help with post-natal depression?
Yes. Hypnotherapy can support emotional healing, reduce anxiety, rebuild confidence, promote better sleep, and gently address the deep feelings of overwhelm or sadness at a subconscious level.

7. How is post-natal depression treated?
Treatment can include therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), hypnotherapy, support groups, medication if necessary, lifestyle changes (like rest and nutrition), and building a strong emotional support system.

8. Does post-natal depression go away on its own?
While some mild cases may improve over time, many people need professional help and emotional support to fully heal. Untreated post-natal depression can last for months or longer and impact both parent and child well-being.

9. How can family and friends support someone with post-natal depression?
They can listen without judgment, offer practical help (like meals, babysitting, or errands), encourage professional support, be patient, and remind the new parent that they are loved and not alone.

10. When should someone seek help for post-natal depression?
Seek help if feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or overwhelm last more than two weeks, worsen over time, affect daily functioning, or if there are thoughts of harming oneself or the baby.