Be there to listen and support her to seek professional help!

This would be so hard to hear and see what your friends going through. I would highly suggest getting them to get a mental health care plan and see a psychologist. It helps alot.

Just be there for her, and make sure she tells her drs.

I would suggest a visit to the gp for starters. If that’s not possible and she’s refusing help, you may have to force her into help.

By refusing medication she could be putting her son as well as herself and the rest of her family. She could self harm and then regret it. There is some medications that don’t put the baby at any risk whatsoever if taken as directed. I think she needs counselling before she does something she may regret, the results of that can be devastating. Encourage her to focus on her little boy. At this point she is neglecting and is going to have medical problems. Does she vomit when changing some of the nappies? That may be one of the reasons she isn’t doing it. I know of one Mum who actually vomitted while changing soiled nappies and occasionally called a friend a few houses away Her babies were very close together and she had 2 in nappies when she was pregnant with number 3.

Wow, I’ve heard so much about post natal depression, but this is the first time I’ve heard of pre natal depression. Your poor friend!

Yes I hope it all worked out for her as well!

ask her if she is ok, and let her know you are there for a shoulder if she needs one

I hope it all worked out for her. Hormones can have a huge effect on emotional health. Just make sure you are there for her all the time if she will speak to you about her problems. That is a good start.

Have you tried the beyond blue web site? They have some great tips on helping friends suffering with depression.

maybe take her to see a doctor

Pregnancy hormones can be powerful things, your friend needs lots of support but don’t be afraid to intervening if you get too concerned. I would talk to your doctor and find out what community based assistance is available

If you could talk to your own doctor, maybe they could give you that much needed advice for her.

Did she end up getting the help she needed?

Encourage her to get professional help. You could also call nurse on call and they would be able to direct you to some good services

I hope all is okay with your friend now.

How is your friend now?

I hope you have found the right answers

Ask her how she is going, as much as you can but not in an intrusive way. Give her a hand when you can. Support, support, support. Explain that she is doing a great job and that she is a good mum. Just be there for her and if it gets worse maybe you could gently advise her of a good program close to home to help.

I truly hope your friend got the help and advice she needed. She is lucky to have a dear caring friend like you.