Symptoms of postpartum anxiety and depression

Postpartum depression may involve sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, irritability, loss of interest, low energy, appetite changes or feeling like a burden. Postpartum anxiety may involve racing thoughts, repeated fears about the baby’s safety, physical tension, panic, restlessness or an inability to relax even when the baby is safe.

Some parents feel detached from the baby or ashamed that bonding is not immediate. Distressing unwanted thoughts can occur with anxiety; having a thought is not the same as wanting to act on it, but it should be discussed openly. Symptoms that persist, intensify or make caring for yourself difficult deserve professional assessment.

Tell a partner, trusted relative, doctor, midwife or health visitor what you are experiencing. Write down mood, worries, sleep, appetite and intrusive thoughts so the appointment is specific. Accept practical help with rest, food and baby care. Perinatal mental-health support may include psychological therapy, medical review and a safety plan suited to your circumstances.

Seek immediate help for thoughts of suicide or harming the baby, inability to stay safe, severe confusion, extreme agitation, or hearing or seeing things others do not. Stay with the person and contact local emergency services or a crisis service. A sudden loss of contact with reality after birth is an emergency.

Do my symptoms suggest anxiety, depression or both? What treatment options are compatible with feeding my baby? How can my support person help? Which warning signs require emergency care?