Dear GirlShrink,
Ever since I moved, I haven’t been feeling very happy. I dont even feel like going to school. Then Valentine’s Day came around, and I found myself crying in my room. Than on top of that I fell down the stairs and broke my leg. I have such bad luck. With guys and self-esteem. With everything!

Dear Unhappy,
Having just made a big move myself, I know how that feels. Everything has changed. You don’t have the safety of your old life. Old place where you lived. Stores you shopped at. Perhaps old friends. It sounds like you are very lonely, and perhaps a little clumsy:) Remember that your life will NOT always be in this place and feel this sad. You will get to another place where you feel better, but to help yourself along, you could make sure that you do not isolate yourself. Find a friend, a family member, a club, a hobby, something where you around another person. Stay connected to people — that is what’s most important at this difficult time.

Dear GirlShrink,
My doctor told me I am at high risk for post partum depression if I have a child because I suffer from depression. They say its best if I don’t have any at all.
Thanks & Best Regards
Cassandra

Dear Cassandra,
I would get a second opinion from another physician. Sure – you are at risk of suffering from a little postpartum depression after birth based on your history, but that doesn’t mean that you cannot have children. I suffered from depression as well – and gave birth to three children. I only suffered postpartum depression with one. And I was in a partnership with my physician who quickly helped me develop a treatment plan during that time. Which was especially important because I was breastfeeding. So what do I recommend:

1. Get a second opinion and partner with a OBGYN who is familiar
with depression.

2. Make sure you have a support system in place for after the birth whether that is an additional family who comes to help you out fora month. OR you hire a nurse or nanny for a few months. Someone in addition to your spouse etc. to help with the transition into motherhood which is difficult even without depression:)

3. Have a therapist, counselor, religious leader. etc. in place ideally for the pregnancy and after the birth. Talk therapy will be an important part of the process as well.