Understanding Depression During Pregnancy: Signs to Look For
Normal Mood Changes vs Depression
| Normal in pregnancy | Possible depression |
|---|---|
| Occasional tearfulness, worry or irritability | Low mood most of the day, nearly every day, for 2+ weeks |
| Tiredness that improves with rest | Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy |
| Ups and downs | Feelings of worthlessness, guilt or hopelessness |
Signs to Look For
- Persistent sadness or emptiness
- Loss of interest or pleasure
- Changes in sleep or appetite beyond normal pregnancy changes
- Constant anxiety or panic
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling disconnected from the pregnancy
- Thoughts of self-harm, which need urgent help
Risk Factors
- Past depression or anxiety
- Lack of support from husband or family
- Relationship or financial stress
- Unplanned pregnancy or previous pregnancy loss
- Pressure about the baby's gender or other family expectations
How Families Can Help
- Listen without judging and take her feelings seriously
- Share household work and make sure she rests
- Avoid comments that add pressure or blame
- Encourage and accompany her to see a doctor or psychologist
Getting Help
Talk to your gynaecologist at your next check-up, or sooner. Talking therapy with a psychologist is very effective. If medicine is needed, your doctor will choose options considered suitable in pregnancy. Never stop or start medicines without advice.
If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, seek help immediately at the nearest hospital emergency department or contact your doctor right away.
Our psychologist at Well Life Herbal Clinic, Faisalabad, offers private sessions in a calm setting. WhatsApp 0303 8661000 to book.
Aksar Pooche Jane Wale Sawal (FAQ)
Kya pregnancy mein depression aam hai?
Haan, taqreeban har 10 mein se 1 ya zyada khawateen ko hota hai. Ye kamzori nahi, ek qabil-e-ilaj halat hai.
Ghar wale kaise madad karein?
Baat sunein, ilzam na dein, ghar ke kaam mein haath batayein aur doctor ya psychologist tak le kar jayein.
Kya pregnancy mein ilaj mehfooz hai?
Psychologist se baat cheet bohot mufeed aur mehfooz hai. Dawa ki zaroorat ho to doctor mehfooz option chunega.
Sources: WHO: Maternal mental health · NHS: Mental health in pregnancy