I think all 1st time Fathers that understand English should read this article esp to my brother in law & I personally think u should seek professional help lo..
extracted from Mother & Baby, feb 2004
According to some experts, PND is a major unrecognised contributor to the breakdown of many relationships.
Experts advise putting off decisions about separation until after the PND has lifted as many marriages tend to stabilise once the PND has been treated.
Recent research has discovered that 3% of fathers are prone to PND too, especially if their wife is depressed.
The following factors can influence the risk of PND among fathers:
Concurrent stressful events
Limited social interaction and support
The quality of your marriage
Older age or being a first-time parent
Lack of exposure or information
As a new father, you will need to look after your own emotional and physical well-being, especially if your spouse is suffering from PND. Make sure that you have some time to yourself aside from your career and family, and try to maintain a few of your favourite interests and hobbies.
Spend time with close friends and talk to about your feelings and concerns.
If all else fails, consult your doctor or seek out professional help.
-----About 1/10 mothers develop PND, a kind of depression that usually develops within 12 months of childbirth. Symtoms depend on the severity of the depression but might include feelings of inadequacy and guilt, tearfulness, panic attacks and sleeping difficulties.
A mother who is suffering from PND may withdraw herself from everyone, including her baby and spouse.
If you feel that you are grapping with PND in your relationship:
Find out as much as you can about PND and how you can help your wife.
As her husband, you play a pivotal role in her recovery even though the support of family members and close friends are cruicial.
Accept that PND may be causing your marital problems and not the other way around.
Keep the lines of communication open withou taking each other's moods or criticisms too personally.
Seek out appropriate stress management techniques, such as exercise or meditation.
Try to arrange for at least an occasional night out together away from your baby.
Seek professional help.
PND is both manageable and curable. Remember that the great strain on your life and relationship is part and parcel of new parenthood.
Both you and your wife may need some extra help in the begining, but as time passes and you become more adjusted, life will gradually return to normal.