Beating the baby blues

Talk about it. Depression after birth sometimes has its roots in events before birth. In 1988, a major Norwegian survey of women who gave birth in hospital found that 64% reported feeling a loss of control during childbirth. More than two-thirds of these women exhibited signs of depression soon after birth. A high rate of depression is also associated with emergency Caesareans and instrumental deliveries. Being able to talk about your birth experience with an experienced counsellor can be an important way of addressing depression.

Warning – use herbs with care. Most people think of St John’s wort – the ‘sunshine herb’ – when they think of natural cures for depression. For some it can be a very effective mood lifter, but it is only appropriate for mild to moderate depression and only if depression has its roots in an imbalance of brain chemicals such as serotonin. If depression is the result of fatigue or low thyroid function after birth, then St John’s wort is not for you. St John’s wort should not be used if you’re breastfeeding. If in doubt always seek the advice of a herbalist.

Aromatherapy, especially when combined with massage, can be a very effective way of lifting a dark mood. The right essential oils appear to play a significant part in the success of aromatherapy massage. For instance, citrus fragrance can raise both mood and immune system function. In one study, published in the journal Neuroimmunomodulation in 1995, citrus fragrance was shown to be more effective than conventional antidepressants. Likewise, lavender Roman camomile, clary sage and neroli are known to have proven sedative and mood lifting effects.

Homeopathic remedies can have a dramatic effect on mood. A comprehensive review in the British Homeopathic Journal in 1990 argued that, depression can be a symptom rather than a problem in its own right. Treating the cause, whether it is anger, resentment, jealousy, weepiness or indifference, produced excellent results. For best results consult a qualified practitioner.