Ellie Goulding has opened up about struggling with postpartum depression — and said nature "saved me" after the birth of her son Arthur in 2021.
Speaking to Radio 4's Today programme, the English singer-songwriter said she said she "would start to feel some life come back to me" after walking in the countryside.
The Brit award winner, 36, added that walks in nature helped "the numbness ease off".
She said she would put on a big coat and her boots — "even if it was just over my pyjamas, all I'd do was put one foot in front of the other and I would walk out into a field".
Goulding said that the only other thing that would help was cuddling her son.
She said "I felt I was losing my mind" and "desperately researched" the condition.
What is postpartum depression?
Also known as postnatal depression, it is a type of anxiety that many parents may experience after having a baby. It is a common problem and affects more than one in every 10 parents within a year of giving birth in the UK.
Can anyone get postpartum depression?
Yes, both men and women can suffer depression after the birth of a baby.
Is postpartum depression the same as the ‘baby blues’?
No. Many can feel a bit down, tearful, or anxious in the first week after giving birth. The baby blues is so common it is considered normal by midwives. However, medical professionals say they should not last longer than two weeks.
What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?
Signs include:
- a persistent feeling of sadness and low mood
- lack of enjoyment and loss of interest in the wider world
- lack of energy and feeling tired all the time
- trouble sleeping at night and feeling sleepy during the day
- finding it difficult to look after yourself and your baby
- withdrawing from contact with other people
- problems concentrating and making decisions
- frightening thoughts — for example, about hurting your baby
Many people do not realise they have postpartum depression because it can develop gradually.
What are the treatment options for postpartum depression?
It is best to treat postpartum depression as soon as possible. Talking therapies and, in some cases, antidepressants can be prescribed to help treat the condition.
What are the causes of postpartum depression?
The NHS says there are a “number of things” that may make you more likely to have postpartum depression. These include:
- a history of mental health problems, particularly depression, earlier in life
- a history of mental health problems during pregnancy
- having no close family or friends to support you
- a difficult relationship with your partner
- recent stressful life events, such as a bereavement
- physical or psychological trauma, such as domestic violence
How can I get help for postpartum depression?
If you, or someone you love, is suffering from postpartum depression, you should speak to a GP or a midwife for help.
Midwives and health visitors are often well-trained in the condition and can offer help and support.
Local and national organisations, such as the Association for Post Natal Illness (APNI) and Pre and Postnatal Depression Advice and Support (PANDAS), can also be useful sources of help and advice.
