Your mental health
The first few weeks and months after having a baby can be emotional. You may feel a huge mix of emotions from joy, love and pride to worry, sadness and frustration.
How are you?
Many parents and carers find it hard to talk about difficult feelings after having a baby because they feel under pressure to be happy.
Knowing more about some of the things that new parents and carers can struggle with may help you feel more prepared. Have a look at Tommy's advice on planning ahead for after the birth and their advice for dads and partners.
You're not alone
Remember that you're not alone if you are feeling low. Up to 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men develop mental health problems such as depression or anxiety during pregnancy, or in the first year after childbirth.
If you are worried about the way you are feeling, please talk to your midwife, health visitor or doctor. They will point you in the right direction for all the support that you need, without judgment.
You can find more advice in Mental health and pregnancy.
Take care of your mind
Looking after your mind is just as important as looking after your body, but it can be easily overlooked. Every Mind Matters has lots of expert advice and practical tips to help you stay on top of your mental wellbeing.
Further help and support
For more advice and tips on coping with emotional changes, stress and anxiety when caring for a baby, have a look at:
- Tommy's: mental health before, during and after pregnancy
- Tommy's: looking after your mental health for dads and partners
- The NHS website: postnatal depression
- PANDAS: Information and support for parents affected by perinatal mental illness
- Family Hubs: Family Hubs and Support
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