Study reveals tell-tale sign of postnatal depression often overlooked

Identifying it early is crucial.

Update: 2018-07-09 12:35 GMT
Study reveals tell-tale sign of postnatal depression often overlooked. (Photo: Pixabay)

More than half of new mum experience postnatal depression, commonly known as "baby blues".

Common symptoms of postnatal depression:

* Constantly feeling sad
* Low mood
* Uninterested in life
* Feeling guilty
* Lack of self-confidence

However, a new study has found there is one symptom that is often overlooked. Identifying it late can delay treatment of parents suffering from the condition.

University of British Columbia researchers found many women are not being screened for anger. "We know that mothers can be depressed and anxious in the postpartum period, but researchers haven’t really paid attention to anger," Nursing PhD student Christine Ou, who conducted the study, told The Mirror.

"There’s some evidence that indicates that being both angry and depressed worsens the intensity and length of depression.

"That can have many negative effects on the mother, child and family, and on the relationship between parents," Ou further explained.

Ou feels anger stems from feelings of being judged and not having the support of loved ones.

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