Postnatal Depression

The "baby blues" are common and pass within 2 weeks. Postnatal depression is a longer-lasting and more debilitating illness. It's important to get help if you think you might be depressed.

Postnatal depression (PND) is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby. It's common, affecting more than 1 in 10 women within a year of giving birth. It can also affect fathers and partners.

• A persistent feeling of sadness and low mood.
• Lack of enjoyment and loss of interest in the wider world.
• Lack of energy and feeling tired all the time.
• Trouble sleeping at night and feeling sleepy during the day.
• Finding it difficult to look after yourself and your baby.
• Withdrawing from contact with other people.
• Problems concentrating and making decisions.
• Frightening thoughts – for example, about hurting your baby.

Speak to a GP, midwife or health visitor as soon as possible. They are trained to recognise PND and can help. Remember, PND is an illness, not your fault, and it does not make you a bad parent.

Treatments include:

• Self-help: Talking to family, resting, gentle exercise, and eating well.
• Talking therapies: Such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
• Antidepressants: Your doctor can prescribe medicine that is safe to take while breastfeeding.

You can also find support from charities like the Association for Post Natal Illness (APNI) and PANDAS Foundation.