Symptoms of Postnatal Depression (PND)
The severity of PND depends on the number of symptoms, their intensity & the extent to which they interfere with normal functioning. PND tends to be characterised by a combination of the following symptoms. The combination & 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 & loss of concentration
- Feeling guilty and inadequate
- Loss of confidence & self-esteem
- Thoughts of harm to self, baby or suicide
Source: PANDA website
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