Q: I had a baby one year and two months ago. He was premature and had to stay in the hospital for some time. However, when I came out of the hospital I was diagnosed with post-partum depression. I would like to know if I will be able to get over it because until now, I am still having the symptoms. Waiting for a speedy response.

A: Post-partum depression is the very sad and hopeless feeling a woman may have after she has had a baby. Symptoms may include depressed mood, tearfulness, inability to enjoy pleasurable activities, trouble sleeping, tiredness, appetite problems, feelings of inadequacy as a parent, and impaired concentration.

If you experience post-partum depression, you may worry about the baby's health and well-being. You may have negative thoughts about the baby and fears about harming the baby. Post-partum depression interferes with a woman's ability to care for her baby.

You need to find a family psychologist quickly so you can get help to be positive again and regain a sense of emotional control. Call us at 382-7034 if you cannot find a counsellor or psychologist near you.

Q: My son was born prematurely ( seven months and two weeks). He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy - but does not have all the symptoms that are associated with it. He walks only with a limp and is currently going through physiotherapy at the Bustamante Hospital for Children where he also saw the neurologist who diagnosed him with cerebral palsy. My problem is that he is very sensible and knows a lot of stuff, but he does not talk when he wants to go (to the bathroom). He tells us after, that he just passed his urine etc. He will be three years old in January of next year, and he attends pre-school. I need help please.

A: Potty training can be a challenge for children who have no physical problems, and even more challenging for a child living with cerebral palsy. Patience is everything. His body is not working normally like yours and so it will take him some time to get it right. Go to your doctor and ask him/her to explain what is happening to your child's abdominal muscles, so you can further understand why he is having some challenges. Some medications may even be a part of the problem. Please talk to your paediatrician and neurologist more about this concern.

Q: Can you list a few private institutions that offer testing of a child's reading level? Thanks.

A: These include but are not limited to:

1. Vista Counselling and Assessment Services

2. Mico Care Centre

3. Jamaica Association for Children with Learning Disabilities.

You can call these places and they can refer you to other agencies if needed.

Q: My concern is the bedwetting of an 11-year-old child. This has been happening for the last two years. His mother says it is a family trait as she gets up two or three times a night. I think it is due to a bladder infection or problems with his nervous system. I think he needs to be taken to a doctor. Am I right or wrong?

A: Yes, your child needs to see a medical specialist to rule out any medical problems that he may be having. I see where you noted that this has been occurring over the last two years. If it was not happening before there must be a reason. If the paediatrician says there are no physical problems, then please see a psychologist to determine if there are any emotional problems.

When you have kids, you get the full package: runny nose, nausea, diarrhoea, gripe and a slew of testy troubles that come with early childhood.The Gleaner's health specialist, Dr Orlean Brown-Earle, has all the answers. Email questions to helpline@gleanerjm.com or send to Ask the Doc, c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston.