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Postpartum Depression

Self Assessment Tool

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Postnatal Self-Assessment Tool

Checking In: A Self-Assessment for New Parents

Important: This is a Screening Tool, Not a Diagnosis

This brief questionnaire is designed to help you understand how you’ve been feeling over the past 7 days. It is not a diagnostic tool.

A formal diagnosis for any mental health condition, including postnatal depression, can only be made by a qualified health professional after a comprehensive evaluation.

The results of this screener are intended to be a starting point for a conversation with a doctor, therapist, or other mental health provider.

If you are in crisis or having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, please do not use this tool. Instead, contact 9-8-8 (the Suicide Crisis Helpline) immediately, go to your nearest emergency room, or call 911.

Instructions: Please check the one response that comes closest to how you have been feeling in the past 7 days.

1. I have been able to laugh and see the funny side of things.

2. I have looked forward with enjoyment to things.

3. I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things went wrong.

4. I have been anxious or worried for no good reason.

5. I have felt scared or panicky for no very good reason.

6. Things have been getting on top of me.

7. I have been so unhappy that I have had difficulty sleeping.

8. I have felt sad or miserable.

9. I have been so unhappy that I have been crying.

10. The thought of harming myself has occurred to me.

Please answer all 10 questions before seeing your results.

Important: Regarding Your Answer to Question 10

You indicated that the thought of harming yourself has occurred to you. Your safety is the number one priority. This is the most important result, regardless of your total score.

Please reach out for help right now.

  • Call or text 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline)
  • Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
  • Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566

Your Score: 0-9 (Low Risk)

A score in this range suggests you are unlikely to be suffering from a significant postnatal mood disorder.

However, this is just a screener. If you are feeling unwell, overwhelmed, or "not yourself"—even with a low score—trust your feelings. Parenthood is a massive adjustment, and it is always a good idea to seek support. Feel free to book a consultation to discuss your feelings.

Your Score: 10-12 (Possible Mild to Moderate Depression)

A score in this range indicates that you may be experiencing symptoms of mild to moderate postnatal depression or anxiety.

You are not alone in this. These feelings are very common and highly treatable. This score suggests it is time to take action and talk to someone. You do not have to "tough it out."

We strongly recommend you discuss these results with your family doctor or a mental health professional (like one of our therapists) to get a full assessment and discuss support options.

Your Score: 13 or higher (Probable Moderate to Severe Depression)

A score of 13 or more suggests a high probability that you are experiencing moderate to severe postnatal depression.

Please hear this: This is not your fault, and you are not a bad parent. Postnatal depression is a medical condition that requires treatment.

It is very important that you seek a professional assessment as soon as possible. Effective treatments are available, including therapy and medication, and they can help you feel like yourself again.

Please make an appointment with your family doctor or a psychotherapist this week to discuss these results.

Immediate Help & Resources

If you feel you are in crisis, cannot keep yourself or your baby safe, or need to speak to someone urgently, please use these resources.

  • Crisis Services Canada: Call or text 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline)
  • Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566
  • ConnexOntario: Call 1-866-531-2600 (for mental health, addiction, and problem gambling services)
  • Emergency Services: Call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.