Content warning: This post contains mentions of postnatal depression and mental health some readers may find triggering.

For years, Melissa Hopkins suffered in silence from depression. Then she decided to speak up. She tells Mia Freedman about that moment. Post continues after audio.

"In the blur that is the first weeks and months of parenting, it can be hard to identify what is wrong." Image: Getty.

"Know that you are worthy of care." Sally Shepherd wants women to know that postnatal depression is treatable. Image: supplied.

This is an edited extract from Beyond the Bump by Sally Shepherd ( $29.99, Allen & Unwin). It has been republished here with full permission.

Sally is an experienced clinical psychologist with a passion for and expertise in helping new mums adjust to parenthood and cope with the common challenges associated with the first year postpartum.

If you think you or someone you know may be suffering from depression, contact PANDA – Post and Antenatal Depression Association. You can find their website here or call their helpline –1300 726 306.