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Many women have heard of the 'baby blues', however there is a difference between this and postnatal depression.

In fact, symptoms of postnatal depression often start as baby blues and then become more severe.

And it's more common than you might think. According to the HSE, postnatal depression occurs in as many as 10 to 15 per cent of women within the first year of giving birth.

What is postnatal depression?

Postnatal depression is the term used to describe the depression that some women experience in the first 12 months after having a baby.

It doesn’t matter if it’s your first or third child; it can happen to anyone at any point and occurs in an estimated 10 to 15 per cent of women. The sooner it is recognised and treated, the faster you will be feeling better and on the road to recovery.

Why does it happen?

Straight after giving birth, almost all new mothers experience ‘baby blues’. This is a totally normal response to dramatically fluctuating hormones post-pregnancy, which can last anything from a few hours to a couple of weeks, according to the experts.

Postnatal depression happens when the symptoms of baby blues don’t pass and symptoms worsen.

Anyone who has previously suffered from depression, is dealing with additional stressors or conflicts in relationships or doesn’t have a strong social support system can be more susceptible to it.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of postnatal depression can vary greatly in severity. They might include a frequent low or irritable mood, problems sleeping, crying easily, constant tiredness and feelings of worry, panic or anxiety.

How do I know if I have it?

Postnatal depression can be tricky to diagnose, because many of its symptoms are similar to the usual feelings of stress, exhaustion and moodiness that can come with the challenges of a newborn baby.

Symptoms of postnatal depression might become more obvious when your baby reaches 4 to 6 months old.

You may be experiencing anxiety-provoking thoughts, or be finding it hard to eat, sleep or enjoy life fully with your newborn baby.

If this is the case, there is absolutely nothing for a new mother to feel guilty or ashamed about.

Giving birth and looking after a newborn child is a physically and emotionally draining experience. We are only human after all, and there is plenty of help and support out there.

Visit your GP if you are feeling concerned about any symptoms you might be experiencing. They will be able to screen for postnatal depression and tailor a treatment plan to suit the individual.

What treatments are available?

One of the best forms of treatment for postnatal depression is counselling and talking therapy. If you are diagnosed with the condition, your doctor will be able to refer you to the relevant services.

Drug treatment usually involves anti-depressants. If you are breastfeeding, your GP will be able to prescribe medication that is suitable to take during this time.

It can also be helpful to join a support group for new mothers, or talk with others who have been through a similar experience.

Don’t be afraid to accept help or offers to babysit from friends and family, and make sure to make time for yourself to do simple things you enjoy, like go for a coffee, out for a meal or visit friends.

Where can I find more information?

Here a few helpful and reliable websites where you can find out more:

Information and Guidance

Support Network