Postnatal depression: signs and where to get help

Baby blues

In the first two weeks, many parents feel teary, anxious or irritable. This is called the baby blues and usually passes on its own.

Postnatal depression

About one in ten new mothers have postnatal depression. It can start any time in the first year.

Signs include low mood most days, losing interest in things, trouble bonding, feeling hopeless, and anxiety.

Anxiety and other conditions

Postnatal anxiety, OCD and post-traumatic stress after a difficult birth are common too. Rarely, a serious illness called postpartum psychosis can start suddenly in the first weeks. It is an emergency.

Getting help

Talk to your midwife, health visitor or GP. Talking therapies and medicine can help, and many are safe with breastfeeding.

Partners can get postnatal depression too, and help is there for them as well.