Postnatal depression can be treated

Rates of postnatal depression may be higher than previously estimated, a children’s charity has claimed today. Various medical sources estimate that around 10-15% of new mothers are affected, but according to the charity 4Children around 3 in 10 new mothers may experience the condition.

The figure is based on a new survey and report conducted by the charity in a bid to look at how postnatal depression (PND) is perceived and treated in the UK. According to the figures gathered by the charity:

• Approximately 33% of mothers who experienced depression symptoms during pregnancy went on to have PND.
• Approximately 25% of mothers still suffered from PND up to a year after their child was born.
• Approximately 58% of new mothers with PND did not seek medical help. This was often due to them not understanding the condition or fearing the consequences of reporting the problem.