Mental Health

Feeling low after childbirth

Feeling sad after childbirth is a reaction to hormonal changes that happen before, during and after the birth of the baby. This is commonly known as ‘baby blues’.

It may be difficult to know what emotional and health changes are normal when caring for a baby. Recognise the signs of anxiety and depression. Discuss any signs or symptoms with your partner and health professional.

Support is available for you and your partner. You can check how you and/or your partner are going at PANDA (call 1300 726 306), or consult with your health professional.

If you are concerned about your or your partner’s emotional or mental health, you can find more information at Beyond Blue or call 1300 22 4636. If you are concerned about your or your partner’s ability to communicate in English, you may be able to request a professional interpreter.

Both men and women may present symptoms of anxiety or depression during pregnancy and early parenthood.

Signs and symptoms of perinatal anxiety and depression in men can include:

• Constant tiredness or exhaustion
• Ongoing headache and high physical stress levels, e.g. muscle tension
• Loss of interest in sex
• Changes in appetite
• Sleep problems (unrelated to baby’s sleep)
• Ongoing irritability, anger or moodiness
• Emotional withdrawal from your partner, baby, family, friends
• Fear of caring for baby
• Not wanting to communicate with your partner, family and friends
• Feeling isolated
• Using alcohol or drugs to ‘escape’ or cope
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviours.¹

Resources

Translated factsheets on Anxiety and Depression in Pregnancy and Early Parenthood (available in Chinese, Vietnamese, Urdu, Somali, Arabic)

Translated resources on mental health and parenthood