Postnatal psychosis is a medical emergency. It causes sudden and severe changes in mood, behaviour and thinking. Early treatment keeps everyone safe and supports a smoother recovery. This page explains the treatment options for postnatal psychosis and what families can expect.
You might also hear the term postpartum psychosis. Both terms describe the same condition. PANDA uses the term postnatal psychosis.
“I am so thankful that I got to a hospital when I did as this is such a serious condition.”
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Why immediate treatment matters
People experiencing postnatal psychosis may not realise they are unwell. They may resist help or minimise symptoms. Partners and family members often play a key role in recognising what is happening and taking the first steps toward safety.
Immediate care helps to:
- Stabilise symptoms
- Ensure safety for the parent and baby
- Restore sleep
- Reduce distress
- Begin a clear recovery plan
“I am so thankful that I got to a hospital when I did. This is such a serious condition and immediate treatment is so important.”
Hospital care for postnatal psychosis
Most people with postnatal psychosis need hospital admission. Hospital is the safest place for assessment and early treatment.
What hospital care may involve
- A psychiatric assessment
- Medication to stabilise mood, sleep and thinking
- Supportive care from mental health nurses
- A safe space to rest
- Ongoing monitoring of symptoms
Where treatment takes place
- Some hospitals have Mother and Baby Units where the parent and baby stay together
- In other situations the parent is admitted to an adult mental health unit and the baby stays with family
Length of stay varies depending on individual needs and how quickly symptoms improve.
Medication
Medication is a key part of the management of postnatal psychosis. The type of medication depends on the person’s symptoms and circumstances. A psychiatrist will decide what medication to start and how long it should continue. Some people respond quickly while others may need time to find what works for them.
Sleep and rest
Sleep disruption can trigger or worsen symptoms of postnatal psychosis. Treatment usually includes support to help restore safe sleep routines. Partners or family may be asked to care for the baby so the person can rest.
Counselling and psychological support
When the person is feeling more stable counselling may help them:
- Understand what happened
- Process difficult or frightening thoughts
- Rebuild confidence
- Strengthen their relationship with their baby
- Learn strategies to manage stress and warning signs
Counselling often works best alongside ongoing medical care.
Planning for going home
Leaving hospital is an important stage of recovery. A safe transition plan often includes:
- Follow up appointments
- A clear medication plan
- Support with sleep routines
- Guidance for partners and family
- Information about local supports
It is normal for recovery to continue after going home.
Ongoing recovery
Recovery from postnatal psychosis is not always linear. Many people feel well for a while then notice symptoms returning. This does not mean recovery is failing. It means support is still needed.
Ongoing recovery support may include:
- Regular GP or psychiatry appointments
- Counselling
- Parent infant and bonding support
- Support for partners and children
- Check ins with PANDA’s Helpline
The role of partners and family in recovery
Partners and families play a vital role in treatment. They may help by:
- Attending appointments
- Supporting medication routines
- Helping with sleep and rest
- Caring for the baby
- Providing emotional reassurance
- Watching for warning signs
“My husband was a pillar of strength. He propped me up when I was low and loved me through every step of recovery.”
PANDA National Helpline
Find someone to talk to, Monday to Saturday.
1300 726 306
Call 000 for police and ambulance if you or someone else are in immediate danger
Talk with friends or family
Consider talking about how you are feeling with someone you trust. This might be a friend or family member. Once you starting talking you might be surprised at how many others have had similar experiences and the support they can provide you.
Talk with your doctor
Talking with your doctor can be an important step to getting the help you need. They should be able to give you non-judgemental support, assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing care and treatment. They can also refer you to specialists such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Get help now
If you are having suicidal thoughts or are feeling disorientated it’s important to get help immediately. PANDA is not a crisis service, if you need immediate support call Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7).
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