Postnatal and perinatal depression are among the most common complications of pregnancy and the postnatal period — and among the most treatable. With the right support, recovery is expected.
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Postnatal depression (PND) is a mood disorder that affects parents — most commonly mothers — following childbirth. It is distinct from the brief “baby blues” that many women experience in the first week after birth. PND involves persistent low mood, anxiety, and functional impairment that typically begins within the first year after delivery.
Perinatal depression refers to depression that occurs during pregnancy or in the postnatal period. It is more common than many people realise, affecting approximately 1 in 5 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers in Australia.
Postnatal depression symptoms vary but commonly include:
Emotional symptoms:
Anxiety and intrusive thoughts:
Physical and behavioural symptoms:
If you have been experiencing several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, speaking with a psychologist is strongly recommended. PND does not resolve on its own without support.
Postnatal depression affects approximately 1 in 5 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers in Australia each year. It is the most common complication of childbirth.
Despite how common it is, many parents feel ashamed, guilty, or afraid to seek help — fearing they will be seen as a “bad parent.” These feelings are a symptom of the condition, not a reflection of your worth as a parent. Postnatal depression is not caused by weakness or poor parenting — it has biological, psychological, and social contributors, all of which respond to treatment.
Postnatal depression is maintained by a combination of hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, identity change, social isolation, and negative thought patterns. Without targeted support, these maintaining factors reinforce each other:
Evidence-based psychological treatment produces significant improvements in postnatal depression, with most clients experiencing meaningful recovery within 8–12 sessions.
Treatment for postnatal depression at The Talk Shop draws on approaches with strong clinical evidence:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) — identifies and restructures the negative thought patterns maintaining low mood and anxiety. Highly effective for both postnatal depression and anxiety.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — helps parents develop psychological flexibility and reconnect with values-based parenting, even in the presence of difficult thoughts and feelings.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) — specifically designed for postnatal depression; addresses role transitions, relationship changes, and grief associated with new parenthood.
Mindfulness-Based approaches — support present-moment awareness and reduce rumination, particularly helpful for postnatal anxiety.
Your first appointment is a 50-minute assessment session where your psychologist will take a thorough history, understand your current symptoms, and collaboratively develop a treatment plan. For clients experiencing postnatal depression, treatment is typically delivered over 8–12 sessions, with flexibility to accommodate the practical realities of new parenthood, including Telehealth options.
Partners and support people are welcome to attend sessions where appropriate. If your symptoms are severe or include thoughts of self-harm, your psychologist will work closely with your GP and obstetrician to coordinate care.
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Is it normal to not feel bonded with my baby?
Yes. Difficulty bonding is a common and distressing symptom of postnatal depression, not a sign that you are a bad parent. Bond development often improves significantly as depression is treated.
Can postnatal depression affect fathers?
Yes. Paternal postnatal depression affects approximately 10% of new fathers, often presenting as irritability, withdrawal, and increased alcohol use rather than low mood. Treatment is equally effective for fathers.
Will I need medication?
Not necessarily. Psychological treatment alone is effective for mild to moderate PND. Your psychologist will liaise with your GP if medication may be beneficial alongside therapy.
Can I attend sessions with my baby?
Yes. Our psychologists are experienced in conducting sessions with infants present. Telehealth is also available if attending in person is difficult.
You do not have to navigate this alone. Postnatal depression is treatable, and with the right support, most parents make a full recovery. Our compassionate, experienced team is ready to help — book online, call us on 1300 224 665, or enquire below.
Anxiety Depression PTSD OCD Grief Addiction Eating Disorders BPD Stress Relationships
Australian Bureau of Statistics (2022). National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing. ABS.
COPE: Centre of Perinatal Excellence (2023). Clinical Practice Guidelines for Perinatal Mental Health.
Dennis, C.L., & Hodnett, E. (2007). Psychosocial and psychological interventions for treating postpartum depression. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
