Postnatal depression and anxiety affect up to 1 in 5 new mums and up to 1 in 10 new dads. The severity of postnatal depression 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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Strategies to manage low mood
Depression signs and symptoms
The combination and severity of symptoms will be different for every parent but might include
1
Changes to mood
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Changes to behaviour
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Changes to 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 challenges. 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.
Getting Support
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.
Stories
Real Stories from parents who experienced postnatal depression
Articles
Support for postnatal depression
Mental health checklist
How are you going?
Everyone’s experience of pregnancy, birth and parenting is unique and brings different rewards and challenges.
Complete our online mental health checklist to see if what you’re experiencing or observing in a loved one could be a reason to seek help.
PANDA National Helpline
Find someone to talk to, Monday to Saturday.
1300 726 306
Call 000 for police and ambulance if you or someone else are in immediate danger
Talk with friends or family
Consider talking about how you are feeling with someone you trust. This might be a friend or family member. Once you starting talking you might be surprised at how many others have had similar experiences and the support they can provide you.
Talk with your doctor
Talking with your doctor can be an important step to getting the help you need. They should be able to give you non-judgemental support, assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing care and treatment. They can also refer you to specialists such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Get help now
If you are having suicidal thoughts or are feeling disorientated it’s important to get help immediately. PANDA is not a crisis service, if you need immediate support call Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7).
PANDA CHATBOT
Chat to Dot
Meet Dot. They’re here to support you to explore your mental health and wellbeing during pregnancy and as a new parent.
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