Air force and postpartum depression?

Question

i had a baby about 5 weeks ago and i think that i have postpartum depression. i know that i would not be able to function right at work. i keep thinking about suicide and all of this crazy stuff. will they give extra leave for this? going back to work is only going to make it worse. i dont know what to do. i thought about trying to palace chase, but then i will be low on money. i dont know how much longer i can take all of this.

Answer 1

try going on sick call and let the medical people help

Answer 2

Talk to your OB/Gyn immediately and make an appointment with the mental health clinic.  If they diagnosis post partum and feel that it can be treated, you can be put on medical leave for a time.  If after that they feel you are still struggling, they would then look at med boarding you out.  Do not wait to get help though.  If the feelings of suicide get stronger, immediately go to the nearest ER.  It is always better to be cautious and be safe!

Answer 3

Go to the doctor,and let the doctor sign a note  so that you can get rest and recover.

Answer 4

first and foremost, I need to say if you are thinking of suicide, you need to go to Sick Call or the ER ASAP and tell a doctor this. This is not healthy for you or your baby. You need to take care of yourself so that you can take care of your baby and thinking like this is not taking care of yourself.

The military will make you go back to work even with postpartum depression but they will try and make it easier on you and might give you an extra week of leave. You need to speak with a counselor or psychologist.

Here are some websites on postpartum depression you might want to check out:

http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/postpart...

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/postpar...

Not sure what you mean about palace chase. Must be an Air Force Term.

But please get help and speak to someone.

Christine

Answer 5

If you were a civilian and quit your job you would be facing the same dilemma.  Stick with the Air Force.  

Answer 6

The first thing you should ask yourself is, are you really feeling this way? or are you making yourself think that way, so you can be with your baby? if you were in the U.S Coast Guard they would allow you up to a year or maybe more to spend with your baby. But even then you would not get paid.

Best bet is to stick it out. It's the Air Force NOT the Navy. Unless you are deployed,touring, or on training leave you will be with youe baby everyday. In the Navy you would spend 3 nights a week on a ship. Then go out for several weeks gearing up for a 6 month cruise. You have it a little easier right now. The Air Force may be upping deployments and all soon. So take advantage of this while you can.

Answer 7

Amber,

This is very normal.  My best friend and one of my aunts had this after their babies.  

Ordinary leave can be used after maternity leave but that's not your main issue right now.   Suicidal thoughts are.   Please take yourself to the ER or mental health right now.  

Nobody is going to think you are crazy or try to take your baby away.  This happens to a lot of women.  Your hormones are out of whack.  Medical treatment will help you get back on track and then you can decide whether or not to go Palace Chase, etc

Answer 8

I went through a severe case of PPD too .... Read my article and email me privately if you have any additional questions!!!

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article...