Managing Postnatal Depression
Welcoming a new baby is one of life's most joyful moments, but it can also bring unexpected emotional challenges
By Dr Berlinda Png, a GP at Bulli Medical Practice
Welcoming a new baby is one of life's most joyful moments, but it can also bring unexpected emotional challenges.
Postnatal depression affects about one in seven women within the first year after childbirth, and some fathers experience it too. The good news? It's treatable, and you don't have to face it alone.
More Than Just the Baby Blues
You've probably heard about the "baby blues" – those tearful, overwhelming feelings that affect up to 80% of new mums in the first few days after birth. These usually pass within 10 days. Postnatal depression is different. The symptoms last longer than two weeks, feel more intense, and make it hard to get through your day.
What to Watch For
Common signs include persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness, losing interest in activities you usually enjoy (including bonding with your baby), feeling hopeless or guilty, changes in sleep or appetite beyond normal new-parent exhaustion, trouble concentrating, irritability, withdrawing from loved ones, or thoughts of self-harm.
Help is Available
If you're experiencing these symptoms for two weeks or more, please reach out to your GP. Early recognition and support make a real difference. Treatment options include counselling, therapy, and sometimes medication that can be safely prescribed during breastfeeding. Self-care and family support are important parts of recovery too.
If you're having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, seek immediate help through emergency services.
Remember, postnatal depression is common and treatable. You're not alone, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Need support? Our compassionate team at Bulli Medical Practice is here to help. Book an appointment to discuss your concerns in a safe, understanding environment. We can work together to develop a treatment plan that's right for you.
For confidential support: PANDA 1300 726 306 | Lifeline 13 11 14 | Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.
About the writer
Dr Berlinda Png is a GP at Bulli Medical Practice. She was born in Singapore and initially completed a Bachelor of Arts in 2000. She graduated with honours from The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 2007 and became a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. She has a Diploma in Child Health, a Clinical Diploma in Palliative Medicine and a Diploma in Skin Cancer Medicine. Berlinda’s areas of interest include older adults’ health, children’s health, women’s health, chronic disease management and skin cancer. Berlinda enjoys spending her spare time with her husband and four daughters, cooking and walking.
