Depression

Why am I depressed ? when I should be on top of the world

Mood swings are common in the first trimester. Close to 10% of women face mild to moderate depression. The lows can be consistent or frequent. Common symptoms include sleep disturbances, changed eating patterns, fatigue, loss of interest in daily activities, and exaggerated mood swings.   These symptoms should not last for more than two weeks.

The trick is to follow a healthy diet and exercise plan and cut down on caffeine, sugar and chocolates, as these are substances that result in a false high in blood sugar levels.
 

What factors can put women at risk for depression

Many of the following conditions could make women susceptible to occasional bouts of depression. In extreme cases, women have been advised to go in for therapy or take anti-depressant medication.

• Socioeconomic stress
• A family history of personality disorders
• Lack of emotional support
• Hospitalization or complete bed rest advised due to a high risk in pregnancy
• Anxiety about your own or your baby’s health and safety