Postnatal Depression in New Mothers
A perinatal psychologist’s guide to recognising the signs, seeking support, and finding hope in the early days of motherhood
For many new mothers, a new baby’s arrival can also bring overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. Postnatal depression (PND) and anxiety are fairly common after childbirth (more than 1 in 10!), yet they are often misunderstood, overlooked, or written off as “just baby blues.” As a psychologist, I support new mothers who are navigating these extreme emotional challenges. First of all, in case you need to hear it, your feelings are real and they are valid.
If you are having thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby, it is not your fault. Please seek non-judgmental and urgent support by calling 000 or one of the numbers below. They will be able to help you immediately.
PANDA – 1300 726 306
Lifeline – 13 11 14
Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636
Women’s Domestic Violence Crisis Service – 1800 015 188
What Is Postnatal Depression?
Postnatal depression (or PND) is a mental health condition that can develop any time in the first year after childbirth. This condition can affect any new mother, regardless of their previous mental health history, and can emerge at any point in the first year after childbirth. While some feelings of sadness or anxiety are common in the early days after birth, PND is more intense and persistent, and significantly impacts daily functioning. It’s also important to understand that postnatal depression may look different for every mother.
Common signs of postnatal depression include:
Persistent Sadness: Feeling down, hopeless, or disconnected from your baby or the world around you.
Anxiety: Having excessive, uncontrollable worries about your baby’s health or wellbeing, or about your ability to care for them.
Irritability: Feeling easily frustrated, short-tempered, or on edge, often over small things that wouldn’t usually bother you.
Difficulty Concentrating or Remembering: Struggling to focus, make decisions, or remember simple things.
Fatigue: Feeling exhausted all the time, even after resting, and unable to find joy or energy in your day-to-day activities.
Loss of Interest: Losing interest in things that you once enjoyed or feeling emotionally numb.
Feelings of Worthlessness: Struggling with guilt, shame, or feeling like you’re a bad mother.
Sleep and Appetite Changes: Sleeping too much or not being able to sleep at all, and changes in appetite (either eating too little or too much).
Thoughts of Hurting Yourself or Your Baby: Please call 000 or Lifeline immediately. Remember, this is not your fault, and they will be able to give you urgent support.
When to Seek Help
If these symptoms have lasted more than a few weeks, or are making it difficult to care for yourself or your baby, it’s time to seek psychological support. Postnatal depression is not a sign of weakness or failure. It is a medical condition that can be treated with the right support.
If you’re experiencing postnatal depression, or if you’re struggling to adjust after childbirth, I’m here to support you. You can book a psychology appointment with me either in-person in Coburg or via video call by visiting my online booking page. Together, we can work through these challenges and help you find the support you need.
