natural supplements for PND

[Milk_Monkey]

Hi,

I've been recomended a Multi B vitamin and fish oil tablets to assist with post natal depression.

Is there anything else that i should consider taking?

[naturopathonline]

Hi There,

I'm sorry to hear that you have been experiencing PND, it's such a common condition approximatly 15% of all new mums experience it. I'm glad we're discussing it on this forum as there is lots you can do to help support your recovery while you are taking conventional antidepressants.

Nutritional support can play a big part in your recovery and will work in well with the medication your docor will have prescribed.

It is always good to have an integrated approach to PND, a management plan, if you like, that will make sure you cover all bases to give you the best possible recovery, this should involve you doctor, a nutritionists/naturopath and a counsellor or psychologist.

It is always best to have a qualified nutritionist or naturopath develop a thorough support programme for you as we are all different and you will need individualised support for PND.

I can however give you some suggestions - but it is best to have an appointment with your local nutritionists/naturopath.

B group vitamins are a good place to start as they help support the body at times of stress.

A comprehensive multivitamin and mineral is the best way to get the b group in a balanced formula along with other important co factors.

Oils ain't oils! the type of fih oil you need should be high in EPA. EPA has been shown in studies to be very beneficial for depression and works very well with antidepressant medication. You may be breastfeeding so you should chose a fish oil that has a balance of EPA and DHA (which is very beneficial for bub) The type of doses you need to take to have a postivie effect are around 1000 mg plus of EPA per day. That's why seeing a practitioner may save you money in the long run as there are alot of cheaper fish oils on the market that might not have a high enough dose to get the required effect.

Other nutrients that you may find helpful are magnesium and iron - deficiency of both of these have been found to be a contributing factor to PND and again this is best prescribed by your practitioner.

Studies have also shown that counselling combined with antidepressant therapy as opposed to antidepressant by themselves get the best results.

Exercise has been shown in studies to have a big impact on depression and should definatly be included in your overall recovery programme. It's probably the last thing you feel like doing at the moment - recruit your friends and family, ask someone to come walking with you.

Develop a plan with a group of professionals and ask your loved ones to support you - let them become involved in your treatment and recovery. You can tackle PND just like you would any other health condition.

If all women who experience PND talk openly about this condition we will be able to demystify it and reduce the stigma attached to a diagnosis of depression. After all it is just the bodies response to a major change and it can be treated successfully so you can go on to enjoy your life and being a mum :flowerz:

Wishing you all the best for a speedy recovery!

Tania

[Milk_Monkey]

Thanks for the reply.

I actually declined to take prescription antidepressants. I wanted to try every other option first.

I have been seeing my gp and a councillor and exercise and having 'me' time has been a huge help.

YOur information about the fish oil has been expecially insightful :yes: I'm off to check labels now.

Thanks so much!