How do I know if I have postnatal depression? | NHS

What is postnatal depression?

After a baby is born, some parents feel very sad. This is called postnatal depression.

If you feel sad after having a baby, tell someone. A doctor or nurse can help.

Talking with friends or family can also make you feel better.

Remember, you are not alone, and getting help is important.

What are the signs of feeling very sad after having a baby?

When can a new mom start to feel sad after having a baby?

What to do if you feel sad after having a baby

Can partners feel sad after a baby is born?

Yes, when a new baby is born, partners can feel very sad too. This sadness is called postnatal depression. It can happen to both mums and dads.

If you feel sad, talk to someone you trust. You can also see a doctor or a counselor. They can help you feel better.

Writing down your feelings can also help. Try to rest and look after yourself. Remember, you are not alone, and there are people who can help you.

What makes people feel sad after having a baby?

How do doctors know if someone has postnatal depression?

Doctors talk to new parents about how they feel after having a baby. They ask questions to understand their feelings. Sometimes, they use simple tests or forms to help find out. It's important to talk to a doctor if a new parent feels sad, worried, or tired for a long time. Friends and family can help by supporting them to see a doctor or nurse.

Can you treat postnatal depression?

Yes, you can treat postnatal depression. It is important to get help from a doctor or therapist. They can provide support and medicine if needed.

Here are some tips that might help:

• Talk to friends and family about how you feel.
• Try to rest when you can.
• Spend time outside and go for walks.
• Join a support group for new parents.
• Use apps that help with relaxation, like meditation apps.

How can I help myself feel better after having a baby?

Here are some things you can try:

• Talk to someone you trust. It could be a friend or family member.
• Take time to rest. Make sure you get enough sleep.
• Eat healthy food and drink enough water.
• Try to go for a short walk outside each day.
• Do something you enjoy, like listening to music or reading a book.
• Ask for help if you need it. You are not alone.

You can also try deep breathing to help you relax:

• Breathe in slowly through your nose for a count of four.
• Hold your breath for a moment.
• Breathe out slowly through your mouth for a count of four.
• Do this a few times to feel calm.

Remember, you can talk to a doctor or a nurse if you need more help. They can support you and give advice.

Can I find help groups for feeling sad after having a baby in the UK?

If you feel sad after having a baby, there are groups that can help. These groups are for new mums who find it hard to feel happy after the baby is born. In the UK, many places have these support groups.

If you need help:

• Ask your doctor or midwife. They can tell you where to find a group.
• Look on the internet for support groups nearby.
• Check if any online groups can help you talk to others who feel the same.

Talking to people who understand can make you feel better and not so alone.

Can medicine help with postnatal depression?

Yes, medicine can help with postnatal depression. This is a feeling of sadness that some parents have after a baby is born.

If you're feeling sad after having a baby, a doctor can give you medicine to feel better. It's important to talk to a doctor about how you feel.

Here are some things that can help you:

• Talk to someone you trust about your feelings.
• Do things that make you happy or relax you.
• Ask for help from family and friends if you need it.
• Use a calendar or planner to remember things.

How long can sadness after having a baby last?

Can feeling sad after having a baby affect my baby?

Feeling very sad after you have a baby is called postnatal depression. It can affect how you care for your baby. But there are ways to get help and feel better.

What can you do?

• Talk to a doctor or nurse. They can give you advice.
• Share your feelings with friends or family you trust.
• Try to rest when you can. It's okay to ask for help.
• Use relaxing music or stories to calm down.

Remember, it is important to talk to someone if you feel very sad. Getting help can make things better for you and your baby.

How can I stop feeling sad after having a baby?

How can family and friends help someone with postnatal depression?

Family and friends can help a lot when someone has postnatal depression. Here are some ways they can help:

• Talk and Listen: Spend time with the person and listen to how they feel.
• Help with Baby: Offer to care for the baby so the person can rest.
• Be Supportive: Say kind words and be patient.
• Encourage Help: Suggest they talk to a doctor or therapist.

Family and friends can make a big difference just by being there and showing love. Using a calendar can help plan visits and support. Writing feelings in a journal can also help.