A wobble in the first week or two, tearful, sensitive, easily overwhelmed, is so common it has a name: the baby blues. It usually passes on its own. But sometimes the heaviness stays, and it helps to know the difference, and to know that support genuinely works.

Signs worth paying attention to

• Low mood, tearfulness or emptiness that lasts beyond the first couple of weeks.
• Anxiety, racing thoughts or worry that feels hard to switch off.
• Struggling to sleep even when the baby sleeps, or losing your appetite.
• Feeling disconnected from your baby, or from yourself.
• A sense of not coping, or guilt that feels relentless.

These experiences are more common than many realise, affecting a significant number of new parents, and they can affect partners too. They are not a reflection of your love for your baby, or your worth as a parent. They are health matters, and they respond well to support.

Asking for help here is not weakness. It is one of the most protective things you can do for you and your baby.

Where to turn

Your GP and health visitor are a good first step, and there is no need to wait for things to get worse before you speak to them. Specialist perinatal mental health support exists, and organisations such as PANDAS offer information and a listening ear. If you ever feel unable to keep yourself safe, please reach out straight away to your GP, NHS 111, or the Samaritans on 116 123, at any hour.