Postnatal depression and anxiety: signs and where to get help
How it differs from the baby blues, and the free support available.
Baby blues
Many birth parents feel teary, anxious or overwhelmed a few days after birth. These baby blues usually pass within two weeks.
When it is more
Up to 1 in 5 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers and partners experience perinatal depression or anxiety. Signs include feeling low most of the time, constant worry, not enjoying things, trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps, and thoughts of harming yourself.
Getting help
Talk to your GP, midwife or child health nurse. PANDA’s National Helpline on 1300 726 306 is free. Treatment works, and the earlier you get support the better.
If you feel unsafe
If you have thoughts of ending your life or harming your baby, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14 now.
General information only, checked against Australian government and peak-body sources. Talk to your GP, midwife or child health nurse about your situation.