What if perinatal mental health support does not relieve low mood after birth?

Low mood after birth can involve depression, anxiety, trauma, sleep deprivation, physical recovery, pain, feeding difficulties or overwhelming practical pressure. Support may need more time, a different approach, or additional treatment. Thyroid problems, anaemia and other physical conditions can also affect energy and mood. Ongoing symptoms are not a personal failure and do not mean you are unable to care for your baby.

Tell your midwife, GP, obstetric team or mental health clinician that your mood has not improved, and describe sleep, appetite, anxiety, concentration, bonding, frightening thoughts and daily functioning. Ask whether a physical health review is needed and whether therapy, medication, peer support or practical help should be added or changed. Take someone you trust to the appointment if speaking feels difficult. If you take medication, do not stop it suddenly without medical advice. Read [Low Mood After Birth](/symptoms/postnatal-low-mood/) and [Perinatal Mental Health Support](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/perinatal-mental-health-support/).

Seek urgent help now if you may harm yourself or your baby, cannot keep yourself safe, feel detached from reality, hear or see things others do not, or have rapidly escalating confusion or agitation. Stay with a trusted adult, move away from anything you could use to hurt yourself, and contact local emergency services or the nearest emergency department.

Ask: Could a physical problem be affecting my mood? What treatment change fits my symptoms and feeding plans? How quickly can I be reviewed? Who should I contact outside appointments? What safety plan can we make for difficult moments?