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.

ScreenMentor gave this response on 4/27/2000:

Manic depression is a disorder of mood swings. It sounds like your friend is dealing with depression.

One can suffer from chronic depression and have it intensified by postpartum depression. Add PMS hormonal imbalances and you've got an intense and acute problem which requires immediate medical attention.

Where is your friend that she can't get access to mental health care? Who is presently prescribing her medication? She should try to see a doctor who is experienced with psychopharmaceuticals.

I also wonder if her child's pediatrician knows that she is breastfeeding while on Zoloft.

Take your friend to a hospital emergency room and stay with her until somebody comes to give her help. Pitch in to care for her child. If you care about your friend you will be glad you did.

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