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  Dr Melanie Strang (Parent Educator)
  Health Professional

  Dr Strang runs a workshop for parents to be and new parents on "Emotional Transition to Parenthood". Becoming a parent requires many new skills; my ... View profile

  The treatment or management of Postnatal Depression varies depending on the severity of the illness and the individual. However there are 3 main “prongs” involved in recovery.: Biological, Psychological and Social.
  
  Biological refers to medical management with antidepressant medication. This is more likely to be used in moderate to severe depression.
  
  Psychological management refers to counselling and Social Management refers to support groups and connecting with others around you.
  
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  Toni Metelerkamp (Psychologist)
  Health Professional

  Toni works with adults and couples, and specialises in diagnosing and treating anxiety (panic disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder), phobias, substance and gambling, addictions, suicide and ... View profile

  There are type different types of postnatal depression (PND) and the treatment differs for each. The first is Melancholic Depression, which is the less common type (only affects 1- 2 % of adults). It is typically the more severe form and seems to have a greater genetic basis. Symptoms of Melancholic Depression typically include slower thinking processes, poor concentration, and agitation or slowed physical movements, as well as the typical symptoms associated with Non-Melancholic PND. Research indicates that Melancholic Depression is best treated with antidepressant medication and psychotherapy, but that it may be less responsive to psychotherapy alone. Research also seems to indicate that this type of PND rarely goes away without medication.
   
  Non-melancholic is the second, more common type of PND and is more strongly associated with psychosocial factors, which include level of support, expectations of ones self, financial strain etc. Psychotherapy alone is better suited to this type of PND, although medication may also be required.
  Evidence based psychotherapies for PND include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness- based Therapy and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). Therapies can be provided in a group format or individually, depending on personal preference. 
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