Mind your language: Postnatal depression

Postnatal depression is common among new parents, affecting more than 1 in 10 women within the first year of giving birth (you can read more about it here).

The most common explanation of it is that it feels like a “cocktail of feelings, ranging from disconnect from those around you, including your baby - to numbness, fear, rage and hopelessness”.

This is immensely difficult for the new parent experiencing it, so let’s not overlook the importance of the language we use. Knowing what to say and what to avoid saying to someone with postnatal depression can be difficult - here are some suggestions.

😢 “You have just now had your baby. It’s probably just the baby blues” ❌

😊 “Keep acknowledging your feeling, continue talking - it’s ok to ask for help!” 🌈

😢 “Just sleep when the baby sleeps” ❌

😊 “Let’s think about who can give you a break so you can sleep” 🌈

😢 “Be positive! Think about how lucky you are to have a baby!” ❌

😊 “Look at all the things you are doing well” 🌈

😢 “You are coping. It’s fine.” ❌

😊 “Talk to your doctor about this. No-one will take your baby away.” 🌈