Postnatal Depression: Everything You Need to Know

TW: This blog discusses depression, suicide, and relationships.

Postnatal depression is something many parents experience after having a baby. It’s a common problem, affecting around 1 in 10 people who give birth within the first year — and it can also affect partners.

With the right support, recovery is possible. This blog explains the difference between the 'baby blues' and postnatal depression, shared symptoms to look out for, and resources for both parents and partners.

Baby Blues vs Postnatal Depression

Having the 'baby blues' after giving birth is very common, for both new mums and partners. Hormonal changes, tiredness, and the huge life adjustment of caring for a baby can lead to:

• Feeling emotional or tearful

• Crying for no clear reason

• Irritability

• Low mood or anxiety

These feelings usually start a few days after birth and settle by around 10 days. They don’t require medical treatment, but it can help to talk about them with a therapist or trusted family member, partner or friend.

Postnatal depression is different. It lasts longer (ranging from weeks or months), and can leave you feeling persistently low, hopeless, or unable to enjoy things you used to. Some parents may also experience depression during pregnancy (antenatal depression – click here to learn more).

Symptoms of Postnatal Depression

Everyone’s experience is unique, but common symptoms include:

• Constant sadness or low mood

• Loss of interest in things you enjoyed

• Trouble concentrating

• Low self-confidence

• Difficulty sleeping (even when the baby is asleep)

• Changes in appetite

• Feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness

• Irritability or anger

• Suicidal thoughts (if you ever feel suicidal, please reach out immediately to your GP, call 999 in an emergency, or contact Samaritans on 116 123)

If these symptoms last more than two weeks, please speak to your GP, midwife, or health visitor.

Risk Factors

Postnatal depression can affect anyone, but you may be at higher risk if you:

• Have a history of depression or mental health problems

• Experienced antenatal depression during pregnancy

• Have been under a lot of stress recently

• Don’t have close friends or family nearby for support

• Are in a strained relationship

• Experienced baby blues after birth

Even if none of these apply, postnatal depression can still occur. Having a baby is a life-changing event, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed.

What to Do Next

If you think you (or your partner) may have postnatal depression:

• Speak to your GP, midwife, or health visitor. They’re not there to judge — they’ll listen and help you find the right support.

• Write down your feelings if talking is hard, or bring someone you trust to appointments.

• Explore treatment options: from self-help and talking therapies to medication, depending on severity.

With the right support, recovery is absolutely possible. You are not alone in this journey.

Useful Resources & Support

• PANDAS – PND Awareness & Support

• NHS – Postnatal depression advice

• Mind – Perinatal mental health resources

• Mind - Useful Contacts for PND

• Association for Post Natal Illness

• Mental Health Foundation

• Samaritans – 24/7 support – Call 116 123.

Support for Dads & Partners

Postnatal depression doesn’t just affect the birthing parent. Partners can experience it too — and even if they don’t, they may feel under huge strain when supporting someone who is unwell while caring for a newborn.

When Your Partner Has Postnatal Depression

Supporting a partner with PND can feel overwhelming. You may be coping with your own tiredness, more household responsibilities, and the pressures of looking after your baby.

• Talk openly: Encourage gentle conversation, but don’t pressure them to share. Sometimes listening is enough.

• Share the load: Handle practical tasks like prepping bottles, doing laundry, or bedtime routines to give your partner time to rest.

• Connect in small ways: A short walk together with the buggy or sitting down for a cup of tea can help you both feel more grounded.

• Attend appointments together: If your partner is comfortable, go with them to GP or health visitor visits. It helps them feel less alone and gives you both space to ask questions.

  
  

When You’re Struggling Too

Around 1 in 10 dads and partners experience postnatal depression themselves. Signs may look different—irritability, withdrawal, risk-taking behaviour, or even physical symptoms like headaches and exhaustion. If this sounds familiar, please know you deserve help too. You can learn more about partner PND & baby blues by clicking here.

Practical Tips That Can Help

• Divide night feeds if possible, so both parents get some rest. Even if breastfeeding, partners can take turns with burping, nappy changes, or resettling.

• Use a baby carrier to bond with your baby while giving your partner a break.

• Accept help from friends or family — whether that’s meals, babysitting, or laundry.

• Check in daily with your partner: even a quick “How are we both doing today?” can keep communication open.

Where Partners Can Find Support

• PANDAS Foundation – Support for Dads: Helpline, online groups, and peer support.

• NCT – For Dads and Co-parents: Practical guidance on caring for both baby and partner.

• Mind: Resources on managing stress, anxiety, and depression.

• Andy's Man Club: Mental Health support groups for men across the UK

• Rainbow Project - Support for LGBTQIA+ Families

  
  

Remember: looking after your own wellbeing is not selfish — it helps you be the parent and partner you want to be.