When should you see a doctor about low mood after birth?

Tiredness, tearfulness, irritability, and feeling overwhelmed can occur after birth while the body and family adjust. When sadness, numbness, guilt, loss of pleasure, or disconnection persists or interferes with eating, sleeping, bonding, or self-care, it may be Postnatal Depression.

Racing thoughts, constant fear, checking, or panic may point to Postpartum Anxiety. Changes in energy, temperature tolerance, palpitations, or concentration can also accompany Postpartum Thyroiditis. Low mood is a presentation of these conditions, not proof of any one diagnosis.

Tell a trusted person today and arrange an appointment with your doctor, midwife, health visitor, or mental-health service. Write down mood changes, sleep, appetite, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, medicines, and practical support at home. Perinatal Mental Health Support can help with assessment and treatment planning.

Get emergency help now if you may harm yourself or your baby, cannot care safely, hear or see things others do not, feel unusually energised with little sleep, or are losing touch with reality. Stay with a trusted adult and ask them to help keep you and the baby safe while care is arranged.

Ask whether your symptoms fit depression, anxiety, or a physical cause, what treatments are compatible with breastfeeding if relevant, and how to access follow-up support.