My story of postnatal depression

Posted by Dad

I had a feeling that something was wrong. My partner was trying to hide the fact she was feeling unwell, so I asked her what was wrong. She found it difficult to talk about it at first, so I asked family to help as often as they could.

I found it hard not to feel rejected, as it seemed at the time as though she had no interest in me. I had no idea how long the illness would last. I did not ask for advice from a health professional, although reflecting back, I wish I had.

My partner was always tired and just wanted to sleep, as if to hide away from the outside world. She did not want to to go anywhere or do anything. I found it quite a challenge, helping at home and taking care of my son, but I managed.

I felt quite jealous at the attention she was receiving, everyone was always asking how she was doing, never asking how I was coping or how I was feeling.

We spent quite a bit of time talking over the months and she eventually started to open up. There were days when I felt frustrated I telling her to pick herself up, that only made the situation worse. Looking back, I think she was just looking for support and to know that I was there for her.

Recovery from the illness was gradual but with support and allowing her time to herself/talk she made a full recovery and back to the woman I know.