Depression prior to Postpartum

[hairpin]

I'm wondering how many of you with postpartum depression had depression before. This is my first pregnancy. And although I'm in a much much better place emotionally than when I had an anxiety order along with depression (12 years ago), my husband and doctor are concerned that postpartum depression might be a problem for me.

I'd love to hear too, if you've had postpartum depression, how long it lasts or your experiences with it in general (if you feel like sharing).

[Gale Force]

I voted that I just had PPD but mine started in pregnancy. It lasted through most of the pregnancy until about 2 years postpartum. I'm 3 1/2 years postpartum and still feel like I am rebuilding and recovering even though it has been 18 months since the more serious phase was over.

[sohj]

Couldn't vote. I was only depressed during the pregnancy. Not before and not after.

[Blue Dragonfly]

I had severe depression in my early 20s, and still get knocked down with it occasionally. I was so scared about PPD, because I recently learned my mother had it, as well as my paternal grandmother. I was determined to do as much as I could to avoid it. During my pregancy, I forced myself to talk over my issues with my dh and midwife. (My usual mode it to hide, which makes things worse) My midwife also recommended comsuming my placenta. As a veggie, I was grossed out by the idea, but even more scared of depression. I think it did make a difference for me though.

My ds is 8 months, and other than the occasional meltdown, I'm doing good. The sky is still blue!

While you are at higher risk because of your history, you are not doomed to PPD.

[hairpin]

Thanks for sharing personal experiences and advice. I find it really helpful.

Rebecca-That sounds a lot like my experience. I had a really hard time in my 20's. I think the important thing for me is to remember to stay on top of living well so depression doesn't set in. Like you said... I should stay open emotionally, develop a support network, eat well and excercise, spend some time outside or with nature every day, don't let stress or addiction get to me, etc. I'll be giving it my best shot, and am not going to worry about it all that much right now.

The thought of eating my own placenta is pretty high disturbing to me at the moment. I'll have to find a guide on what to do, since that's not the kind of thing I feel comfortable doing naturally. I'm considering it though.

One other thing... I think that if you've been through depression once and been able to work through it and see the light at the end of the tunnel, there is some strength in that. It makes it easier to focus on how life is beyond the current situation or troubles.

Thanks again everyone. Take care.