I think I have postpartum depression: what should I know?

Postnatal depression may involve persistent low mood, loss of interest, guilt, hopelessness, anxiety, irritability, exhaustion, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty bonding, or feeling unable to cope. It can begin during pregnancy or after birth, and it can affect someone who wanted and loves their baby. [Low Mood After Birth](/symptoms/postnatal-low-mood/) is a symptom, while a clinician considers the overall pattern, duration, impact, physical health, and support around you.

Feeling worried or low does not make you a bad parent. Hormonal shifts, birth recovery, sleep disruption, feeding challenges, previous mental-health difficulties, stress, and limited support can all contribute. [Low Sex Drive](/symptoms/low-sex-drive/) can also occur with low mood, fatigue, or physical recovery, but it is not required for postnatal depression.

Tell a trusted person today and contact your midwife, health visitor, family doctor, obstetric clinician, or mental-health service. Describe your mood, sleep, intrusive thoughts, and ability to care for yourself and your baby. Accept practical help with food, rest, feeds, transport, or appointments where possible. [Perinatal Mental Health Support](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/perinatal-mental-health-support/) may include talking therapy, practical support, and medication discussions tailored to your situation. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice.

Get urgent help now if you might harm yourself or your baby, feel unable to stay safe, hear or see things others do not, feel unusually energised with little need for sleep, or feel detached from reality. Ask someone you trust to stay with you and contact local emergency services or the nearest emergency department. If there is no immediate danger, arrange prompt clinical support for persistent low mood, frightening thoughts, severe anxiety, or inability to manage basic care.

Could my symptoms be postnatal depression, anxiety, a physical problem, or a mixture?

What support and treatment options fit breastfeeding, sleep, recovery, and my preferences?

Who should I contact outside appointments if my safety or symptoms worsen?