Often dismissed as simply the ‘baby blues’, brought on by the hormonal instability associated with giving birth, postnatal depression and anxiety can occur anywhere between the first few weeks or the first few years of a child’s life.
Because everyone’s experiences are different, perinatal mental illness often goes undiagnosed, and therefore finding support can be a difficult process.
If you think that you or your partner is experiencing postnatal anxiety or depression and would like help please contact us for further information.
Symptoms
Symptoms of postnatal depression and anxiety vary from person to person, and from mother to father.
Common signs are:
- Tiredness and change in sleep patterns
- Mood changes like irritability, anxiety or anger
- Changes in appetite
- Feelings of being overwhelmed, out of control, or unable to cope
- Feelings of isolation or being disconnected from your partner
- Panic attacks and increased anxiety
- Flashbacks to labour or birth
- Constant anxiety over the wellbeing of your child
- No feeling of emotion or connection to your baby
- Feeling numb or emotionless
Some symptoms of perinatal mental illness can be very serious, and may include:
- Thoughts that you may harm your child or a member of your family either accidentally or deliberately
- Feeling like you want to escape
- Feeling as though your family would be better off without you
- Self-harm
- Suicidal thoughts or feelings
Need Help Now?
If you recognise any of these symptoms in yourself or loved one contact us for support.
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or thoughts of harming your baby, please call 111, or seek immediate help from one of these services
‘1737 – Need to talk?’ – free to phone and text – 1737
Crisis Resolution Team – 0800 920 092
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Healthline – 0800 611 116
Samaritans – 0800 726 666