Baby blues or postnatal depression?
Baby blues are a short spell of tearfulness and low mood in the first days after birth, and they usually pass within about two weeks. Postnatal depression is longer-lasting and more severe, and it needs treatment. If low mood continues beyond two weeks, or at any time feels severe, speak to a doctor.
Last updated 2 November 2026
Baby blues
Many mothers feel tearful, anxious or overwhelmed in the first week or so after giving birth. This usually settles on its own within about two weeks, with rest and support.
Postnatal depression
Postnatal depression is a type of depression that can start any time in the first year after birth. Signs include:
- a persistent low mood
- loss of interest in the baby or in things you used to enjoy
- trouble bonding with your baby
- feeling exhausted, guilty or hopeless
- trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps
- thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
How to tell the difference
The main differences are how long it lasts and how severe it is. Baby blues lift within about two weeks. Low mood that goes on longer, or gets worse, is not just the blues.
Fathers and partners
Partners can also become depressed after a birth. If you are worried about someone close to you, encourage them to speak to a doctor.
When to get help
See a doctor if low mood lasts more than two weeks after birth, or at any time if it feels severe. Postnatal depression is common and treatable, and early help makes a difference. If a new mother is confused, hearing voices or very agitated, treat it as an emergency.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.
How to start
- Call or message us. Reach us on +91 90352 54779 or WhatsApp. Tell us your language and a convenient time.
- Free pre-consultation call. Our team takes your history and prepares a report for your clinician, so you do not repeat yourself.
- Video session. You meet your allotted clinician online, from home or wherever you feel comfortable.
- Your plan. The clinician explains what they find and the next steps. You decide together.
Book your free pre-consultation call
Your privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
Is it normal to cry a lot after having a baby?
A short spell of tearfulness in the first days is common. If it lasts beyond two weeks or feels severe, speak to a doctor.
How long can postnatal depression last?
It can start at any time in the first year and may continue for months without treatment. With help, most people recover.
Can I be screened for it?
A short questionnaire such as the EPDS can be a first step, but only a clinician can diagnose postnatal depression.
Related
- Postpartum depression
- EPDS postnatal depression self-test
- Women's mental health
- Signs of an anxiety disorder: when worry becomes a problem
- Bipolar disorder: signs of the highs and the lows
Sources
Mindly Health is not an emergency service. If someone is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.