What should you know about severe postnatal depression?

After birth, depression may involve persistent sadness, emptiness, guilt, loss of interest, [Feeling Anxious](/symptoms/feeling-anxious/), or feeling detached from the baby. A parent may struggle with [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/), [Difficulty Sleeping](/symptoms/difficulty-sleeping/) even when the baby sleeps, appetite changes, concentration, or ordinary tasks. These experiences are medical symptoms, not evidence of being a bad parent. A clinician can assess depression, anxiety, physical recovery, medicines, and sleep conditions such as [Insomnia](/conditions/insomnia/). Partners and relatives can help by sharing concerns and arranging an appointment.

Tell a GP, obstetric clinician, midwife, or mental health professional what is happening. If speaking feels difficult, show them a written description or ask a trusted person to come with you. Accept practical help with feeding, meals, rest, transport, and baby care where available. Treatment can include talking therapy, medicine, or both, with choices adjusted for breastfeeding and other health needs. Keep follow-up appointments and discuss any worsening symptoms rather than waiting for them to pass.

Get emergency help immediately if you have thoughts of suicide or harming the baby, feel unable to stay safe, hear or see things others do not, feel unusually confused or highly activated, or believe someone is threatening you without clear evidence. Do not remain alone with these symptoms; ask another adult to stay and contact emergency services. Urgent review is also needed if you cannot eat, drink, sleep, or care for yourself.

Ask which symptoms suggest [Depression](/conditions/depression/), what support is available locally, whether treatment is compatible with breastfeeding, and how a partner can help. Mention [Daytime Sleepiness](/symptoms/daytime-sleepiness/), [Difficulty Concentrating](/symptoms/difficulty-concentrating/), or [Irritability](/symptoms/irritability/) so the assessment includes the full picture.