When to Seek Help for Postpartum Depression

Every new parent feels exhausted, emotional, and unsure at times. But when do normal struggles cross the line into postpartum depression?

Red Flags to Watch For

If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks or worsen over time, it’s a sign to seek help:

• Overwhelming sadness or a sense of numbness that won’t go away
  
  
• Constant anxiety or panic attacks
  
  
• Guilt or shame about not feeling bonded to your baby
  
  
• Intrusive thoughts, like fear of harming yourself or the baby
  
  
• Withdrawal from social contact or your partner
  
  
• Lack of interest in eating, sleeping, or daily routines
  
  

It’s Not Just Stress or Hormones

While hormonal changes can amplify emotions, persistent low mood, disconnection, or anxiety are not things you should “push through.” PPD is a real medical condition — and it’s not your fault.

What Seeking Help Looks Like

• Step 1: Talk to your GP, midwife, or health visitor.
  
  
  • They may use a screening tool like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).
    
    
• Step 2: Discuss options.
  
  
  • Therapy (such as CBT), support groups, medication, and lifestyle tools (like tDCS) may all play a role.
    
    
• Step 3: Involve loved ones.
  
  
  • Let someone close know what you're experiencing. Emotional support helps recovery.