Postnatal anxiety and depression affects up to 1 in 5 new mums and up to 1 in 10 new dads. The severity of postnatal anxiety depends on the intensity, frequency and type of symptoms, and how much they interfere with your ability to function in daily life.
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Talking to your doctor
Anxiety symptoms
The combination and severity of symptoms will be different for every parent but might include:
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Changes to mood
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Changes to behaviour
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Anxiety and relationships
Everyone’s experience of postnatal depression is unique
We know that everyone experiences symptoms of postnatal anxiety and depression differently. The way it affects you can depend on a range of factors. Your own physical, emotional and mental make-up and stressful external situations may combine to increase the risk.
There are also different degrees of mental health decline. Some people experience mild symptoms of postnatal anxiety or depression, while others experience moderate to severe symptoms. Some mums experiencing symptoms of postnatal depression may also develop symptoms of postnatal psychosis.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms (or any others) that are affecting your daily function and mental and emotional wellbeing after the birth of your baby, it’s a good idea to talk to someone.
If you don’t feel comfortable speaking with family and friends just yet, you can call PANDA. We’ll listen, give you more information and can help you link in with postnatal mental health supports in your area.
Real Stories
Mental health checklist
How are you going?
Everyone’s experience of pregnancy, birth and parenting is unique and brings different rewards and challenges. Our mental health checklist can help you to see if what you’re experiencing or observing in a loved one could be reason to seek help.
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