Postnatal depression

When a baby arrives, everyone expects you to be happy. You may instead feel empty, sad or tense. This does not mean you are weak or do not love your baby. Postnatal depression can be linked to hormonal changes, lack of sleep, stress and too little support, and it can happen to any woman.

Sadness and tears are very common in the first days after birth. These baby blues usually pass within two weeks. Depression lasts longer, feels heavier and can begin at any time in the first year.

• sadness or emptiness nearly every day;
• losing interest in things you used to enjoy;
• being unable to sleep even when the baby sleeps, or changes in appetite;
• severe tiredness and trouble concentrating;
• guilt, worthlessness or believing you are a bad mother;
• difficulty bonding with your baby;
• constant worry, panic or repeated frightening thoughts;
• pulling away from people.

Depression can be treated. Talking therapy, support groups and, when needed, medicines all help. Some medicines are compatible with breastfeeding, so talk this through with a doctor. Practical help from people around you changes a lot, such as taking the baby for a few hours so you can sleep. Tell at least one person how you feel.

Take what she says seriously, take on the housework and help her see a doctor.

This is rare but an emergency. It shows up as strange beliefs, hearing voices, confusion and extreme agitation. It needs immediate medical help.