A validated 10-question screening tool for postnatal depression, used routinely in Australian maternity care.
Please select the answer that comes closest to how you have felt in the past 7 days, not just how you feel today. Your responses are completely private — nothing is stored or sent anywhere.
Note: The EPDS can also be used during pregnancy (antenatal depression screening) and by fathers/partners experiencing perinatal mood changes.
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was developed in 1987 by Cox, Holden, and Sagovsky at health centres in Livingston and Edinburgh. It is the most widely used screening tool for postnatal depression worldwide.
In Australia, the EPDS is routinely administered by GPs, midwives, and child and family health nurses — typically at the 6-week postnatal check, but it can be used at any time during pregnancy or the postnatal period.
The 10 questions focus on mood, anxiety, and the ability to cope, specifically over the past 7 days. Each question is scored 0–3, giving a total out of 30. It takes about 5 minutes to complete.
The EPDS is also validated for use during pregnancy (antenatal depression) and can be used by fathers and partners who may experience perinatal mood disturbance.
Score less than 10: Low likelihood of depression. Continue monitoring your wellbeing.
Score 10–12: Possible depression. A follow-up conversation with your GP or midwife is recommended. This score range has good sensitivity for detecting postnatal depression.
Score 13 or above: High likelihood of depressive illness. Referral for further assessment and treatment is recommended. This is the threshold most commonly used in Australian clinical practice.
Question 10 (self-harm): Any score above 0 on this question requires immediate follow-up, regardless of total score.
Postnatal depression affects approximately 1 in 6 new mothers and 1 in 10 new fathers in Australia. It is not a sign of weakness or failure — it is a medical condition that responds well to treatment.
Talk to your GP. Your GP can assess your symptoms, discuss treatment options, and create a Mental Health Care Plan giving you access to Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions.
PANDA helpline: 1300 726 306 — Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia provides specialist support, Mon–Fri 9am–7:30pm AEST.
Treatment options include: psychological therapy (CBT, IPT), medication (antidepressants that are safe during breastfeeding), peer support groups, practical support with infant care and sleep, and in some cases, specialised mother-baby units.
Early treatment leads to better outcomes for both parent and baby. Please don't suffer in silence.
PANDA: 1300 726 306 — specialist perinatal mental health support
Lifeline: 13 11 14 — 24/7 crisis support
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 — anxiety and depression support
Tresillian: 1300 272 736 — parenting and sleep support for families
13YARN: 13 92 76 — crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In an emergency, call 000.