Welcoming a new child into the world is often portrayed as a joyous occasion, filled with love and excitement. However, for many new mothers and fathers, this transformative period can also bring overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, rage, and despair.
The difference between perinatal depression and postpartum depression is the timing.
.svg)
Postpartum depression (also known as PPD) is a mental health condition that can persist for months. It is different to the ‘baby blues’, which is temporary and less severe. Feelings can manifest as mood swings, helplessness, extreme stress, and loneliness. These emotions can make it difficult for you to function each day. They can also make it challenging to bond with your baby.
Postpartum depression can also take the form of postpartum rage or postpartum anxiety. It can also be called postnatal depression. These are all terms associated with feelings that arise in new parents after a baby is born. If these feelings arise before a baby is born, the condition is called antenatal depression.
Your risk of developing postpartum depression may be higher if you or your family have a history of depression and anxiety, or other mental health conditions. Risk may also increase depending on your personal circumstances, such as fertility or pregnancy complications, relationship difficulties, financial instability, or a lack of support from family and friends.
Postpartum depression often starts from four to six weeks after giving birth. However, it can happen anytime during the first year after a baby is born.
hormonal changes
sleep deprivation
the overwhelming responsibilities of parenting.
Feelings of pressure to meet unrealistic expectations (or constantly comparing yourself to other parents) can also lead to unhelpful emotions like inadequacy and frustration.
If you think you could be experiencing postpartum rage, seek help from healthcare providers. Alternatively, look at joining support groups and developing coping strategies to manage stress and anger. Try our guided breathing and relaxation exercises - such as taking a deep breath and counting to ten.
Women's mental health - Women often hold themselves to high expectations and put others' needs before their own. This means they may not reach out for support until they’re already at breaking point. Learn about how to look after your wellbeing as a woman.
As an organisation that supports people from across Australia, Beyond Blue acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay respect to Elders past and present.
First Nations Peoples are advised that this website may include reference to and images of deceased persons.
Beyond Blue is committed to safe inclusive spaces, policies and services for people of LGBTIQ+ communities and their families.
Premier partners
Without treatment, Postpartum depression can last for several months – or even years. That’s why it’s extremely important to seek help if symptoms persist. It’s also important to know that postpartum depression symptoms can come back after you stop treatment. Continue to be aware of the signs and don’t hesitate to seek support if negative feelings start creeping back in.
Postpartum depression doesn’t just affect mothers. Fathers are prone to experiencing it too, especially if they have a history of mental health conditions. We look at postpartum depression in men further down this page.
New parents with anxiety might fear they are losing control. They may try to do too much with little help (for example, keeping the house overly tidy), or worry that what they're doing with their baby is not 'right' or 'good enough'.
Common signs of postpartum anxiety can include:
panic attacks
Both parents may experience postpartum depression. In fathers, symptoms often present as increased irritability or withdrawal, as opposed to sadness in mothers.
Postpartum depression in men can develop over several months. It can peak between three to six months after a baby is born.
For dads experiencing postpartum depression, it can help to talk openly to family, friends, and other parents. If they continue to feel down, it’s important to seek professional help.
If you’ve recently become a father (or you’re about to become one), we’ve got information and resources that can help you take care of yourself.
