As with many illnesses the causes of Post Natal Depression are not entirely clear though there are identified risk factors which, when combined, may contribute to the development of Post Natal Depression in some cases:
Past history of depression or anxiety disorder
- Hormonal Change
- Upheaval due to moving house or job
- Difficulties Conceiving
- Loss, or unresolved emotional issues with mother
- Past miscarriage or loss of a child
- Loss of identity due to loss or change in work life
- Past life trauma associated with parenthood, childhood, neglect or abuse
- Low self esteem
- Bereavement
- Lack of support from partner
- Unresolved emotional issues with partner
Post Natal Depression can occur with any baby, a woman may be fine with the first but then develop it with her second baby, or have Post Natal Depression with number one but not with subsequent babies, it is also worth noting that the symptoms of can develop during pregnancy. It can happen to anyone regardless of status, wealth, age, IQ, race, etc. It effects up to 100,000 women every year that is roughly 1 in 10 new mothers.
