Postpartum depression symptoms: what to know

You may notice persistent sadness, emptiness, irritability, guilt, or a sense that you are failing as a parent. Some people lose interest in activities, feel detached from their baby, or struggle to feel pleasure. Anxiety, racing thoughts, poor concentration, appetite changes, and exhaustion can also occur. Sleep may remain difficult even when the baby is resting. These experiences are more than ordinary adjustment when they continue, interfere with daily care, or feel increasingly difficult to manage. Read about [Low Mood After Birth](/symptoms/postnatal-low-mood/) and [Low Sex Drive](/symptoms/low-sex-drive/) if either is part of your experience.

Tell a trusted person what has changed and arrange an appointment with a doctor, midwife, or mental-health professional. Note when symptoms began, how sleep and feeding are affected, and whether you have frightening or unwanted thoughts. Treatment may include talking therapy, practical support, and medication chosen with attention to breastfeeding and your health. [Perinatal Mental Health Support](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/perinatal-mental-health-support/) can help you explore options.

Seek urgent help now if you might harm yourself or your baby, cannot care for yourself, feel detached from reality, hear or see things others do not, or have severe confusion or agitation. Do not stay alone in that situation; contact local emergency services or go to an emergency department. Without those warning signs, arrange care promptly when symptoms persist, worsen, or make everyday tasks feel unmanageable.

Ask: Could these symptoms be postpartum depression or anxiety? What support is available locally? Which treatments fit my feeding plans and medical history? What should my family watch for, and who should we contact if symptoms suddenly worsen?