When should I seek help for postpartum depression?

Last reviewed June 19, 2026 by Dr. Sapna Jadhav, General Physician. Sources from ACOG, NHS, Mayo Clinic, CDC, NICE, NIH, Cochrane, and peer-reviewed journals.

Bottom lineSeek help if low mood or anxiety lasts more than two weeks, worsens, or stops you coping or caring for your baby - and seek emergency help immediately for any thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or signs of postpartum psychosis.

Seek help if low mood, anxiety, or feeling unable to cope lasts more than two weeks, gets worse, or interferes with daily life or caring for your baby. And seek help immediately if you have any thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.

Reach out to your provider if you

• Have felt low, hopeless, or unable to enjoy things for more than two weeks
• Are constantly anxious or having panic attacks
• Can't sleep or eat (beyond normal newborn disruption)
• Are struggling to bond with or care for your baby
• Feel like you're not coping, or things are getting worse

Get urgent help right now if you

• Have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
• Have thoughts of suicide
• Feel disconnected from reality, or have strange beliefs or see or hear things others don't (possible signs of postpartum psychosis, a medical emergency)

Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department.

Why early help matters

Postpartum depression and anxiety are very treatable, and earlier treatment usually means a faster recovery. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not failure.

How to ask

Tell your doctor, midwife, or health visitor honestly how you feel. Screening questionnaires and a supportive conversation are normal parts of postpartum care.

Femora helps you track your mood over time so you can share a clear picture with your care team.