Postpartum depression self assessment

Consider whether low mood, emptiness, irritability, guilt, anxiety, loss of interest, poor concentration, or feeling disconnected from the baby has lasted or is interfering with ordinary life. Note changes in appetite, sleep, energy, and confidence, including difficulty resting when the baby sleeps. A checklist can open a conversation, but its result is not a diagnosis and a reassuring result should not overrule serious concerns. Low Mood After Birth explains one symptom pattern that may need assessment. Mention physical symptoms and medicines because recovery after birth, pain, thyroid problems, anaemia, and medication effects can also affect wellbeing.

Write down when symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, how sleep is affected, and whether you can eat, wash, rest, or care for the baby. Share this record with a GP, obstetric clinician, midwife, or mental health professional. Ask someone trusted to attend or help with childcare if that makes an appointment easier. Perinatal Mental Health Support can guide the next assessment and treatment steps.

Arrange prompt professional help when symptoms persist, interfere with functioning, or feel frightening. Seek emergency care immediately for thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby, an inability to stay safe, hallucinations, severe confusion, or unusual beliefs. Do not wait for a questionnaire score, and do not stay alone with a safety concern.

Which symptoms fit postpartum depression, and what else should we check? What treatment choices suit breastfeeding, sleep needs, and my medical history? How soon should we review progress? Who should my family contact if my safety changes?