The baby blues and postnatal depression

Up to 80% of mothers go through a patch of what is known as the ‘baby blues’, often about three or four days after the birth. You might feel very anxious about small things, for example, or mildly depressed or just keep bursting into tears, for no apparent reason.

Baby blues may be caused by hormone changes, tiredness, discomfort from sore stitches or sore breasts or even a feeling of anti-climax after all the excitement. Whatever the cause, you will usually find it only lasts a day or so.

Have a good cry if you feel like it, and try to sleep if you can. The best help your partner or someone close can give is probably just to listen, give you a reassuring hug and look after the baby while you get some rest. If these feelings do not go away, it may be that you are simply not treating yourself very well. Take time out for treats, however small – a long lazy bath, your favourite food or visit a friend.

Around 10% of mothers slide into a depression which may be quite deep. They are taken over by a feeling of hopelessness. They may feel angry, but more often feel too exhausted to be angry or even to cope with the simplest tasks. If you feel like this you must get help. You should contact your GP or health visitor and explain how you are feeling. A partner or friend might contact them after talking to you about it. You can also contact the Association for Post-Natal Illness for more information.

Information provided by Health Promotion England.