Anonymous asked this question on 4/27/2000:

Do you feel that Manic Depression is caused by or made worse by the onset of a monthly period? My friend is still breast feeding her baby, has suffered from 'depression' for years, but has had a bad experience recently of wanting to commit suicide. It seems she got her first period after the birth of baby, at 8 months. She is not coping very well at all at present. Please help us to understand what could be going on within her brain. She has been taking Zoloft but it seems not to be working effectively any more. Would Prozac be a better option. She is going to see a psychiatrist but is getting desperate as the waiting list for these people is so long. Thankyou for any help at all.

notsoserene gave this response on 4/29/2000:

I am not sure my answer will help you, as I am not a professional counselor. However, I have been in this exact situation and can relate from experience.

First of all, PMS is NOT just an expression. It is actually a medical disorder for many women, and it does cause depression.

But, what Really caught my eye about your question was the fact that she is breast feeding. Alot of new mother's suffer from postnatal depression, or what is commonly referred to as the "baby blue's" It can take up to a year and a half before it goes away. All OB/GYN's are familiar with this, and will prescribe the best medicine for the mother, and to make sure that it is safe for the baby that is breastfeeding....

Good Luck.

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