Perinatal depression is one of the most common mental health conditions affecting parents during pregnancy and after birth. Knowing the signs, understanding when to seek help, and accessing the right support can make a significant difference to your wellbeing and recovery.
Parenthood is one of the biggest transitions in life, and while it can be filled with love and joy, it can also be incredibly challenging. For some people, this time brings feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or even detachment. This is known as perinatal depression, and it’s more common than many people realise.
Perinatal depression is a type of depression that can happen during pregnancy or within the first year after giving birth.
It’s not just about feeling sad or tired (which, let’s be honest, most new parents do). It’s when those feelings become intense, long-lasting and start to affect your ability to function day to day.
This isn’t something you can simply “snap out of”, and it’s definitely not a sign of weakness. Perinatal depression is a medical condition, and with the right support, you can recover.
Perinatal depression looks a little different for everyone, but here are some common signs and symptoms of perinatal depression to watch out for.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but some common factors include:
The good news? Perinatal depression is treatable. Here’s how you can start feeling better.
Counselling can make a world of difference. A therapist can help you understand your feelings and work through them.
There are many different approaches, and the most important thing is finding a counsellor you feel connected to so you can talk openly about your experiences.
If past trauma is part of the picture, therapies such as EMDR may also help.
Sometimes medication can help you feel like yourself again. Your GP or healthcare provider can guide you on what is safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
You don’t have to do this alone.
Talk to your partner, family or friends about how you’re feeling. Accept help with cooking, cleaning or caring for your baby whenever it’s offered.
Connecting with other parents who have experienced perinatal depression can be incredibly reassuring. Knowing you’re not alone can make a huge difference.
So many parents experience perinatal depression, but it can still feel difficult to talk about.
The more we share our experiences, the more we can:
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, hopeless or simply don’t feel like yourself, it’s important to reach out.
You could start by:
Parenthood is a wild ride, and it’s okay if you’re not loving every minute of it.
Perinatal depression is nothing to be ashamed of, and asking for help is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby.
You’re not alone, and with the right support, recovery is possible.
Find Olive Counselling here and here
If you’re experiencing symptoms of perinatal depression, seeking support early can make a real difference. Explore our directory of experienced perinatal counsellors, psychologists and maternal mental health professionals to find the right support for you and your family.
Katrina, the founder of Olive Counselling. is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and a mum of two. At Olive Counselling, she specialises in perinatal mental health and couples counselling and works with parents experiencing postnatal depression and anxiety, birth trauma, fertility challenges, grief and loss, identity shifts, and the everyday stresses of parenting.
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