Pregnancy & Postpartum
Postpartum Depression
Depression starting in pregnancy or the first year after birth, going beyond the brief tearfulness of the early baby days.
What it can feel like
- Persistent low mood, tearfulness, or emptiness
- Feeling unable to bond with the baby
- Overwhelming guilt, or a sense of being a bad parent
- Sleep problems beyond the baby's needs
- Anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or feeling numb
Not everyone has every symptom, and you do not need a label to deserve support.
Things that help
Say it out loud to one person
It is very common and very treatable. Telling a midwife, health visitor or GP is the fastest route to help.
Take the offered practical help
Sleep in blocks, food, and an hour of baby-free time are treatment, not luxuries.
Lower the standard you are holding yourself to
The version of parenting you are comparing yourself to does not exist. Reducing demands reduces symptoms.
Want to actually do these? Save them to your practices and tick them off as you go.
Add to my practicesWhen to reach for more support
Tell your midwife, health visitor or GP. Perinatal mental health services exist and prioritise you. Seek urgent help for thoughts of harming yourself or the baby, or of not wanting to be here.