Try to be aware of any changes from how you would normally feel, think or behave. If you feel you are experiencing the signs of postnatal depression, acknowledge and accept this, then tell someone you trust. These can be the first steps towards helping yourself. If you do not feel comfortable with verbalising what you are feeling, journaling your thoughts and emotions may be a start. You may then move towards sharing how you are feeling with others, or even giving the journal to your partner, or a trusted person to read.
If you feel you can tell your
early childhood nurse, women's health nurse or your local doctor, they should be able to give you information, and possibly options for appropriate treatments and support services. Alternatively, you may be able to source out your local community postnatal depression support groups. If you feel unsure about whether you have the symptoms of postnatal depression, it is still recommended that you discuss this with someone. Some women will read books and/or brochures on postnatal depression, before seeking assistance.
The following are some suggestions that other women found useful when supporting themselves with postnatal depression. They include: