Condition : Postnatal depression
What is postnatal depression?
Postnatal depression is a common problem that affects more than 1 in 10 women within a year of giving birth. It can also affect fathers and partners.
Unlike the ‘baby blues’, which last up to two weeks after giving birth, symptoms of postnatal depression can start later, last for several months, and get worse over time.
Because it can develop gradually, many people don’t realise they have postnatal depression, but it is still as serious as other types of depression.
Signs of postnatal depression include:
- sleep problems
- low mood, irritability, or sadness
- eating more or less than usual
- lacking energy
- feeling generally unwell
- being overly anxious about your baby
- finding it difficult to enjoy things or losing interest in them
- avoiding contact with other people
- memory loss or problems with decision-making and concentration
- feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or shame
- finding it difficult to look after yourself and your baby
- having thoughts that scare you (for example, thinking about hurting your baby)
These symptoms can have a significant impact on you, your baby, and the people close to you, so it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
Postnatal depression is not the same as birth trauma, which is a form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) linked to the experience of giving birth.
What causes postnatal depression?
Big life events, like having a baby (even if it’s not your first), can sometimes trigger depression due to the stress and exhaustion involved.
It is a myth that hormonal changes cause postnatal depression. A range of factors will usually be involved.
You may be more likely to have postnatal depression if you:
- have experienced mental health problems in the past (particularly depression)
- experienced mental health problems during pregnancy
- lack a support network of family or friends
- are in a difficult relationship
- have recently experienced a stressful life event, such as a bereavement
- have experienced physical or psychological trauma, such as domestic violence
- drink alcohol, especially if you’re tired
Next steps
Browse our recommended external support resources to learn more about your condition and ways to manage it.
If you need further support or have concerns, a Healthcare Professional is here to help. Reach out for professional medical advice tailored to you.
Discover services and support options available to help you with your health and wellbeing.
Related services
Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service
- Adults
Support for women aged over 18 with past or present moderate to severe mental health difficulties during and after pregnancy.
Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service: Go to serviceBirth in Mind Service
- Adults
Help for birth trauma, a form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or severe fear of birth in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Birth in Mind Service: Go to serviceForget-Me-Not Service (East Berkshire)
- Adults
Psychological therapy support for mental health difficulties due to early pregnancy loss or fertility difficulties.
Forget-Me-Not Service (East Berkshire): Go to serviceTalking Therapies
- Adults
A free and confidential service offering effective treatment for common mental health problems such as low mood, stress or worry.
Talking Therapies: Go to serviceExternal support
Further information on the NHS UK website
Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA)
Support for mental health conditions before, during, and after pregnancy
Visit Rethink Mental Illness
Advice and information about living with a mental health problem