Postpartum depression and cognitive behavioural therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy, often called CBT, is a structured talking therapy. You and the therapist may look at links between thoughts, feelings, body sensations and actions. Sessions can identify patterns such as harsh self-criticism, hopeless predictions or guilt about parenting, then practise more balanced responses.

CBT may also include activity planning, problem-solving, sleep and routine support, coping skills, and gradual steps toward valued activities. It is collaborative: your therapist should adapt the pace to recovery after birth, feeding, privacy, concentration and the demands of caring for an infant.

Ask a doctor, midwife or mental health professional whether CBT suits your symptoms and circumstances. Perinatal mental health support may offer individual sessions, group work or other treatment choices. Tell the therapist about intrusive thoughts, trauma, anxiety, sleep loss and any safety concerns. Between-session exercises can be small, such as recording a thought and testing a kinder alternative.

Seek urgent help for suicidal thoughts, thoughts of harming the baby, hallucinations, severe confusion, dangerous agitation or inability to provide safe care. CBT should not delay emergency assessment. Contact local emergency services when danger is immediate and ask a trusted adult to stay with you.

Ask about the therapist's perinatal experience, session format, expected homework, medication alongside therapy, privacy during appointments and what happens if symptoms worsen. You can ask how progress will be measured in everyday functioning.