I can't remember what my score was but both times (after both kids) I scored enough to warrant a phone call to me from them.
The first time there was a question on there about has anything happened in the last year that you think about, or are upset about etc (can't remember the exact wording on the test up here) and I of course answered yes - my sister had a stillborn. Of course that was upsetting!
And then the second time, I was devastated by not getting my VBAC so scored pretty badly on the test too. Not because I was depressed, but of course I wasn't happy with my birth. So it could just be your birth trauma that is picking up the signs that may suggest you may need AD's - not that you actually have PND and need them
Ali - Thanks darl. I have typed out a rough outline of what happened. I got through doing that ok but haven't been able to read back over it.
AJP - Is there anything special about 'debriefing' over and above just telling someone the story of what happened? The CFHN said I needed to debrief and I had the impression from her that's what I was doing with her. Maybe the debrief didn't work for me?
eej - Thanks. I think I might talk to someone else with more counselling training.
Kim - That's weird that it's out of 24. I wonder if there are different versions? I'm sure the CFHN said it was out of 30. I'm not against taking meds if I need them - just not sure how I tell I need them I guess and don't want to base it solely on a short questionnaire. I'm so glad ADs have been helpful for you.
Mel - I'm so sorry about your sister. That is awful. I think my situation might be similar to yours - the feelings around the birth are being picked up, rather than general feelings.
Maybe there isn't a straight answer to the question of when feelings about a birth experience become depression? I always assumed (wrongly maybe) that if I had or get PND then it's something that I would be aware of as a significant change and something others around me would notice too? Outside of crying when I think/talk about my birth experience I don't feel that different. I actually thought I had dealt with the birth ok until a few weeks ago. But then that makes me wonder if I'm just in denial and don't know it? Its so confusing!
I scored about 10 I think, and the nurse recommended I see a counsellor. I went to my GP and he said he thought I was just a normal new mum coping with sleep deprivation and new responsibilities. I don't think you should worry too much about the score, but it might be benefitial to talk to someone who deals with birth trauma. Are you near Melbourne? we have a fabulous birth counsellor here called Rhea Dempsey.
Hey Anna, I'm not near Melbourne unfortunately. I have been referred to a counsellor. Just waiting on an appt - not sure how long the waiting list is. I've told the FCHN that I don't want ADs just yet.
Kaz, Im at the same point as you. So much of your OP I could have written myself.
I scored 12 and OB referred me a psychologist who eventually prescribed Zoloft. I am not taking them tho. Doing some TCM to help my body get back on track.
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