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Partners have feelings too: depression and anxiety after a baby

Becoming a parent is big for partners too. Postpartum (postnatal) depression and anxiety can affect fathers and partners as well as mothers, during pregnancy and after the birth. Asking for help is a strength.

Baby blues or something more?

Feeling low or tearful in the first days after a birth is common, and the baby blues usually pass within 2 weeks. If the feelings last longer, get worse or make it hard to cope, talk to a doctor. Postnatal depression can start in pregnancy, soon after the birth, or any time in the first year (NHS).

Signs to take seriously, in yourself

  • Feeling low, numb or hopeless most days for more than two weeks
  • Constant worry, irritability or anger
  • Drinking more, or working all the time to avoid home
  • Thoughts of harming yourself

Talk to your doctor. If you think about harming yourself, call your local emergency number now.

Warning signs for her that you should know

Low mood that does not lift, constant anxiety, or not being able to sleep even when the baby sleeps can be signs of postnatal depression or anxiety. Encourage her to talk to her midwife or doctor, and go with her if she wants.

Some signs are urgent, during pregnancy and after the birth, such as heavy bleeding, a bad headache or changes in vision. See urgent warning signs.

Where to get help

WhereHelp
United StatesNational Maternal Mental Health Hotline: call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). Free, confidential, 24/7, in English and Spanish. Partners and family can contact it too. HRSA
United StatesPostpartum Support International HelpLine: 1-800-944-4773 (not for emergencies). Crisis: call or text 988. postpartum.net
United KingdomTalk to your GP. If you need someone to talk to, you can call Samaritans on 116 123 (NHS).
EverywhereYour own doctor, or the baby’s health visitor or midwife.

Questions people ask

Can partners get postnatal depression?

Yes. Fathers and partners can also get depression after having a baby, not only mothers (NHS).

Is it the baby blues or depression?

The baby blues usually go away within 2 weeks of the birth. If low feelings last longer or get worse, talk to your doctor (NHS).

When can postnatal depression start?

It can start in pregnancy, soon after the birth, or up to a year after the baby is born (NHS).

Where can partners get help in the US?

The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, 1-833-TLC-MAMA, is free and open day and night, and partners and family can contact it too (HRSA). In a crisis, call or text 988.

How can I help her?

Listen without judging, and help with practical things like shopping, chores and the baby. Encourage her to talk to her midwife, doctor or health visitor, and offer to go with her.

Helplines in your country

Free or low-cost lines checked on official sources on November 1, 2026. Opening hours and costs are as each service publishes them.

Your country is not listed, or you need help now? Call your local emergency number. You can also find a free helpline near you: Emergency numbers by country · findahelpline.com

Last updated: October 26, 2026

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