Understanding Postnatal Depression: My Story, the Signs, and How to Get Help in Newport & Cardiff
Becoming a parent is often described as one of life’s most magical experiences. And yes, it can be beautiful — but it can also be overwhelming, isolating, and emotionally heavy. Many new parents feel pressure to “bounce back” or instantly enjoy every moment, but the reality is that postnatal depression (PND) is incredibly common, affecting up to 1 in 10 people after birth.
If you’re reading this because you think you might be struggling, or you’re trying to support someone who is, I want you to know this: you are not alone, and support is available.
As someone who has personally navigated grief and postpartum struggles, I understand firsthand how heavy those early weeks and months can feel. When you’re trying to care for a new baby while your own world feels uncertain, confusing, or emotionally unfamiliar, it can be incredibly hard to reach out. But reaching out is exactly what saved me — and it’s why I’m writing this.
Whether you’re in Newport, Cardiff, or anywhere in South Wales, this blog is your reminder that help exists, healing is possible, and asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
What Is Postnatal Depression?
Postnatal depression is a type of depression that develops after the birth of a baby. It can affect anyone — not just mothers, but partners, adoptive parents, and people from every walk of life.
PND is not your fault, and it has nothing to do with your ability or worthiness as a parent.
Common signs include:
Feeling persistently sad or low
Loss of interest in daily activities
Feeling disconnected from your baby
Anxiety, irritability, or constant worry
Difficulty eating or sleeping
Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope
Withdrawing from friends or family
Thoughts of hopelessness
Having any of these symptoms doesn’t make you a bad parent — it makes you human.
My Personal Experience Navigating Grief & Postpartum
After giving birth, I expected to feel tired… but no one prepared me for the emotional complexity that came alongside it. I was dealing with personal grief, physical recovery, hormonal changes, and the all-consuming responsibility of caring for a newborn.
There were moments I didn’t recognise myself.
Moments I didn’t feel connected.
Moments I questioned everything.
But with time — and with support — things eased.
This is why I am so passionate about postpartum wellbeing in my work as a pelvic health practitioner serving Newport, Cardiff, and the surrounding areas. No one should navigate this season alone.
Why Getting Help Matters
Postnatal depression responds well to support. Whether that’s therapy, peer groups, medication, or holistic approaches (like pelvic health physiotherapy, movement, connection, or rest), early help can make a huge difference.
You deserve to feel supported, safe, and emotionally held during this transition.
Where to Get Help in Newport & Cardiff
Here are trusted UK services that can support you:
💛 NHS – Your GP or Health Visitor
Your first point of contact.
They can provide assessments, referrals, and treatment options.
In emergencies call 111 or 999 if you feel in immediate danger.
💛 Mind Cymru
Support groups, mental health information, and local services.
Website: mind.org.uk
💛 MIND Newport / Newport Mind
Local mental health support and counselling.
Website: newportmind.org
💛 Cardiff Mind
Support within the Cardiff area.
Website: cardiffmind.org
💛 NCT (National Childbirth Trust)
Postnatal groups, helplines, and community support.
NCT Helpline: 0300 330 0700
💛 PANDAS Foundation (UK-wide)
Specialist support for perinatal anxiety, depression & mental health.
Help Line: 0808 1961 776
Website: pandasfoundation.org.uk
💛 Samaritans
24/7 confidential emotional support.
Phone: 116 123
💛 Tommy’s
Support for pregnancy and baby loss — especially helpful if postpartum grief is involved.
Website: tommys.org
How I Support Postpartum Parents in Newport & Cardiff
In my practice, I work with new parents not just on pelvic health — but on whole-person, emotional-aware recovery.
This includes:
pelvic floor assessment
postpartum mobility and core support
guidance for restoring body confidence
compassionate conversations about your mental & emotional wellbeing
signposting to mental health resources when needed
Supporting your body matters.
Supporting your mind matters just as much.
If you’d like to work with me, you can book a pelvic health session in Cardiff or enquire about availability in Newport.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Postnatal depression can feel like a fog that steals the joy from those early moments — but with support, the fog really does lift. You deserve care, compassion, and community every step of the way.
If you are struggling, please reach out to a professional, a friend, a partner, or one of the organisations above.
Healing is possible — and you deserve it.
