Healthy Surrey:

Healthy Surrey

Postnatal depression

Becoming a new parent can be an exciting and nerve-racking time for all of us, but as a new parent you may not always experience feelings of joy at the beginning. New mothers often get the baby blues in the first two weeks following childbirth. This is generally regarded as normal affecting as many as 8 in 10 women. The change in mood is linked to the hormonal changes following birth, and the adjustment to the huge changes to your life.

If the baby blues last for longer than two weeks, seek professional support to help you manage, from your Health Visitor, GP or from the providers of Surrey's Talking Therapy services

It is also common for fathers to experience emotional distress following the birth of their child. Do reach out for help if you need it by contacting your GP or the Talking Therapy services.

Postnatal depression can happen at anytime for up to 2 years after giving birth and affects 1 in 8 women. It can be particularly distressing as the expectations of the joy of becoming a new parent are met with the reality of feeling very unhappy and unable to cope. Postnatal depression can have a significant impact on the person themselves and the wider family.

It is important to seek support from a health professional such as your midwife, health visitor or GP, if you feel you may be experiencing symptoms of postnatal depression.

In Surrey mothers with postnatal depression get fast tracked access to talking/psychological therapies.

The Association for Post Natal Illness provides support and information (via phone, email, leaflets and publications).

What to do if you are struggling with your mental health

Support for those with serious or complex mental health needs

  • Surrey has a Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service for women and birthing people who are planning a pregnancy, are pregnant or have a baby and have serious or complex mental health needs. Your GP, midwife or another health professional can refer you to this service.