5 of the most common myths about postnatal depression
'My baby will be taken away from me if I admit I'm struggling to cope' – this is just one of the many myths surrounding postnatal depression (PND).
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Postnatal depression is an extremely common problem, affecting around 10% of all women within a year of giving birth.
Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding PND and if you're suffering, these misconceptions may stop you from seeking the help you need.
We've put together a list of the five most common myths about PND and debunked them.
We hope this will give you the confidence to speak out about how you're feeling and get the help and support you need.
1 Your fear: No-one can help me with my postnatal depression
Having a new baby is supposed to be a wondrous and joyous time, so it can be REALLY hard to admit that you're struggling and even harder to ask for help.
Instead, it's much easier to struggle in silence and hope that the PND will go away by itself.
Reality: If you're finding it hard to cope or feeling anxious, angry or tearful, don't struggle alone. If left untreated, just like any other illness, postnatal depression can get worse and last for months.
If you think you could be suffering from PND it's vital that you seek help as soon as possible – there is help, there is treatment and things will get better.
Read more about what to do if you are feeling down.
2 Your fear: I'll be forced to go on antidepressants
Lots of people don't like the thought of taking medication and they worry that once they start, they'll be stuck on it forever.
There's often a fear that if you admit to a doctor you're feeling depressed your only option will be to take antidepressants, but this couldn't be further from the truth.
Reality: Antidepressants are just one method of treatment and, in the vast majority of cases, are rarely the first or main treatment for postnatal depression.
There are many other options available to you, depending on your circumstances.
Counselling and therapy are often very effective, while self-help manuals, exercise and PND groups can play a big part in your recovery too.
Antidepressants tend to be given for severe postnatal depression or when a mum hasn't responded to other treatments. If you've been prescribed antidepressants they can make a big difference and are often a very effective treatment.
Your GP will be able to talk you through all the options before you decide which treatment is right for you.
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3 Your fear: My baby might be taken away from me
Many mums have a real fear that if they admit they're not coping, they will be seen as a bad mother and their baby will be taken away from them.
Reality: This is not the case at all!
Having PND doesn't mean you're a bad parent - your doctor and health visitor know this, so please don't worry.
A mum who asks for help and support is a responsible parent who is showing they want to get better in order to look after their child. Your doctor is there to support you and help you find the right treatment to get better.
Your baby will NOT be taken away from you, this only happens in very exceptional circumstances.
Even if your depression is so severe that you need to get treatment at a mental health clinic there are specialist mother and baby clinics so your baby can stay with you.
4 Your fear: Everyone will judge me and think I'm failing as a mum
There's a real pressure on mums to be 'perfect'. It often seems like all the other new mums are finding motherhood a breeze and that you should be, too.
We're often our own harshest critics and find it hard not to compare ourselves to others.
Reality: There's no such thing as a 'perfect mum' – the perfect mum is a myth!
Having postnatal depression or anxiety doesn't make you a bad mother, it's not your fault, it can happen to anyone.
Why not look at our Postnatal Depression Forum where other mums share their experiences and support.
5 Your fear: No-one else feels suicidal
If you're feeling this way, it's very easy to feel alone. But please know that you're not.
Reality: Our survey showed that one in five mums have felt suicidal at some point and many more have had thoughts about harming their baby – read our report into Mums Maternal Health.
It's really important to remember that these thoughts don't make you a bad mother and it's very rare for either mother or baby to be harmed. However, it's vital that you get some support and help so that you can get better.
Whether your symptoms are mild or severe Netmums is here to help you every step of the way. We have a wealth of information and practical support including online parent supporters to answer your questions.
