Advice and information on PND for friends and family

Be aware that up to one third of new mothers develop P.N.D. during the first year after giving birth.

Suffering from P.N.D. does NOT mean that the mother does not love/want her baby.

P.N.D. just happens, it is no one’s fault, and not a sign of weakness or inability to cope.

Reassure the mother of your support, and provide practical help. P.N.D. can cause extreme fatigue and your help is essential.

Do provide the mother some time just for herself (if she wants it).

Do ensure that the mother has been in touch with her G.P. remember P.N.D. is an illness that requires treatment – the sooner the better. If necessary, offer to accompany her, and do encourage her to return to the doctor if symptoms worsen at any time.

Don’t point out unfinished jobs, dust, or an unkempt appearance. P.N.D. sufferers have extremely low self-confidence and put downs (intentional or not) can be devastating.

Never, ever, say ‘In my day we never had time to be depressed’ or ‘Look at how lucky you are’ or ‘Pull yourself together, other women cope’ just remember, no one ever asks to suffer from depression!

Be aware that when depressed even small worries and concerns can become major problems. Keep conversations as upbeat as possible, and don’t dwell on bad news.

Unlike other forms of depression, irritability is very common in P.N.D., try not to take it personally.

Listen to the mother when she talks of her concerns, you don’t always have to provide a solution and often what she requires is a non-judgemental listener and a hug.

Partners – a low sex drive, or in fact a nonexistent one, goes hand in hand with P.N.D., this is not a sign of rejection but yet another symptom of the illness. Be kind, be patient, and please don’t pressure your partner. Normality will return.

Remind both the sufferer and yourself that P.N.D. is a real, and treatable illness which will pass.

P.M.S. & P.N.D Support Telephone: 07769801941