Welcoming a baby into the world is one of life’s most transformative experiences — and while it can bring immense joy, it’s also completely normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or low during the postnatal period.
At My Expert Midwife, we believe maternal mental health is just as important as physical recovery after birth. Yet too often, women are left navigating emotional challenges in silence. If this is you, please know you're not alone, you're not failing, and help is available.
What is postnatal mental health?
Postnatal mental health refers to your emotional and psychological wellbeing after giving birth. This period — often called the “fourth trimester” — involves significant hormonal shifts, disrupted sleep, new responsibilities, and physical recovery. It’s no surprise that many women experience mental health changes during this time.
For some, these may present as the “baby blues” — a short-lived period of tearfulness, mood swings, and anxiety in the first week or so post-birth. But when these feelings persist or intensify, it could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as:
- Postnatal depression (PND)
- Postnatal anxiety
- Birth trauma and PTSD
- Postpartum psychosis (a rare but serious condition)
Signs to look out for
While every woman’s experience is different, you may benefit from additional support if you’re noticing:
- Persistent low mood or sadness
- Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Feeling excessively anxious or panicked
- Trouble sleeping — even when baby is asleep
- Intrusive thoughts or fears about harm coming to your baby
- Withdrawing from others
- Feeling worthless, hopeless, or unable to cope
If you're unsure whether what you're feeling is normal, it’s always okay to ask. Trust your instincts — you know yourself best.
How to seek help
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a sign of strength. You deserve support just as much as your baby does.
Here’s where you can turn:
-
Speak to your GP, health visitor, or midwife
They can assess how you’re feeling and guide you to the right support, which may include talking therapies, peer support, or medication if needed. -
Contact a mental health charity
There are several trusted UK organisations offering confidential advice and resources: -
PANDAS Foundation
Support for parents experiencing perinatal mental illness.
Helpline: 0808 1961 776
www.pandasfoundation.org.uk -
Mind
Offers support and information for all mental health conditions.
Infoline: 0300 123 3393
www.mind.org.uk -
Maternal Mental Health Alliance
A network of organisations working together to improve perinatal mental health care.
www.maternalmentalhealthalliance.org -
Tommy’s
Offers resources for pregnancy and parenting after loss or mental health struggles.
www.tommys.org
Supporting yourself through recovery
While professional help is vital, small daily acts of self-kindness can make an enormous difference:
- Talk to someone you trust — whether it’s a partner, friend, or fellow mum.
- Prioritise rest — accept help with chores or baby care where possible.
- Avoid comparison — every mum’s journey is different; there’s no “right” way to feel.
- Focus on nutrition and hydration — fuelling your body supports your mood too.
- Practice self-compassion — you’re doing an incredible job.
You're not alone
At My Expert Midwife, our mission is to support you through every step of your parenting journey — not just physically, but emotionally too. If you’re struggling, please don’t wait to reach out. Help is there, and recovery is possible.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate support, contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or speak to your GP or emergency services.
