Postnatal depression can affect parents during the first year after birth. It is different from the brief 'baby blues' and can involve persistent low mood, anxiety, and difficulty bonding. It is not a sign of being a bad parent; a GP, midwife, health visitor, or qualified mental-health professional can discuss support.
Talking therapy for postnatal depression provides a non-judgmental space to process the shock, loss of identity, and overwhelm of new parenthood alongside depressive symptoms, somewhere you don't have to perform coping the way you might with health visitors or family. It's adapted to the unique context of new parenthood, and builds practical coping strategies alongside emotional support.
General information, not medical advice. Editorially checked against UK clinical guidance and NHS information. Reviewed .