Symptoms of the postpartum psychosis

Changes in thinking

• Delusions (strong beliefs that are not true and are not shared by others), often involving the baby. For example, believing that the baby is in danger, seriously ill or has special powers.
• Disorganised or confused thinking.
• Difficulty concentrating, following a conversation or making decisions.

Changes in perception

• Auditory hallucinations (hearing voices).
• Sometimes, visual hallucinations may also occur.

Significant changes in mood

• Excessive euphoria or extreme irritability.
• Intense anxiety or fear.
• Sudden and unpredictable mood changes.

Sleep disturbances 

• Severe insomnia lasting several nights.
• Sometimes, not feeling tired despite having had little or no sleep.

Risk-taking or unsafe behaviour

• Impulsive or disorganised behaviour.
• Difficulty caring for the baby.
• Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby.