Postpartum Depression & Maternal Mental Health

Postpartum depression is not a character flaw and it is not something a mother should have to "adjust" to. Systematic reviews of Indian studies place its prevalence at roughly one in five mothers, yet most go undiagnosed because the distress is read as tiredness, hormones, or ingratitude. My approach starts by understanding what is actually happening for you, whether that looks like baby blues, low mood, anxiety, intrusive thoughts or the aftermath of a hard birth, then works on it using CBT and Positive CBT adapted for Indian family life, joint households, in-laws, the 40-day chilla, feeding pressure, and the stigma that keeps mothers silent. Sessions are online across India, or in person in Gurugram, and your baby is welcome in the room.

Signs & Symptoms

Low mood persisting beyond two weeks after delivery

Crying you cannot explain, or feeling numb

Difficulty bonding with your baby

Intrusive thoughts about harm coming to the baby

Constant checking, or being unable to rest even when the baby sleeps

Overwhelming guilt, irritability or rage

Loss of appetite or eating for comfort

Feeling like a failure as a mother

My Approach

We begin by talking through what is happening, so that we work on the right thing. If you need a formal diagnosis or an assessment report, I refer you to an RCI-registered Clinical Psychologist or a psychiatrist. From there, CBT and Positive CBT are adapted to the reality of your household, not to a Western textbook. Where the strain has landed on your marriage, or where family members need to be brought in, EFT-informed couples and family sessions are available. Where medication needs to be considered, I work alongside your obstetrician or psychiatrist rather than in place of them.

Techniques Used

A structured first conversation about what is happeningCognitive restructuring for maternal guiltBehavioural activation within a newborn routineExposure and response prevention for postpartum intrusive thoughtsTrauma-focused work for difficult births and C-sectionsFamily and partner sessions, with scripts for asking for helpSleep and self-compassion practices that survive night feeds

Expected Outcomes

Mood that lifts and stays lifted

Intrusive thoughts that lose their grip

A bond with your baby that stops feeling forced

Practical support actually arriving at home

A partner who understands what is happening

Your own sense of self, back

Ready to Begin?

Take the first step towards healing. Book a consultation to discuss your concerns.

Book Consultation

She Was Also Born That Day

Dr. Khurana's book on the months after birth, for Indian mothers and their families.

About the book →

In Crisis?

If you are in immediate distress or having thoughts of harming yourself, please reach out to crisis support immediately.

Tele-MANAS: 14416

24/7 Toll-free helpline

Important Note

Information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult directly for personalised advice.