The Mummies on the Bus: My Journey Through Postnatal Depression

When my son Joshua was very little, I used to sing:

“The mummies on the bus just cry, cry, cry…”

Because that’s what I did.

A Planned Start — and an Unexpected Struggle

Josh was breech, so I had a planned c-section at 39 weeks. The birth was clinical but positive, and the staff at Wexham Park looked after us brilliantly. Our little ‘jelly baby’ had arrived — healthy and strong.

But within days, I began to struggle. The sleepless hospital nights, endless feeding routines, and overwhelming responsibility quickly took their toll. By the time we came home, I felt completely exhausted — and very far away from the joy of motherhood everyone else seemed to talk about.

When Joy Feels Out of Reach

Postnatal depression (PND) doesn’t always arrive in dramatic fashion. For me, it crept in slowly. At first, Josh was thriving, but feeding difficulties soon caused his weight to dip. The constant cycle of three-hour feeds, endless nappy changes, and dealing with nappy rash wore me down.

I cried myself to sleep most nights. I missed my old life, when my time was my own. The cards calling Josh my “bundle of joy” felt painfully out of place. Joy was the last thing I felt.

Recognising Postnatal Depression

At around five weeks, my husband, Pete, tried to get me a GP appointment, but there was no availability. At our seven-week check-up, I finally admitted my low mood. Unfortunately, my concerns were dismissed, and I left feeling even more hopeless.

A week later, everything came to a head. Overwhelmed, I broke down at 2am, and Pete insisted we see another doctor. This time, I was taken seriously. I was referred to the Maidenhead Postnatal Help Group, given a low dose of antidepressants, and most importantly — I was heard.

That moment was a turning point: I had postnatal depression, and it wasn’t my fault.

What You Need to Know About PND

• PND affects around 1 in 7 mums.

• It can happen after your first baby or any subsequent pregnancy.

• It’s different from the “baby blues,” which usually pass within a week.

• Symptoms often appear between 6–8 weeks, but can occur anytime in the first year.

• PND is an illness — it does not mean you’re a bad mother.

Finding Support in Maidenhead and Beyond

For me, stopping breastfeeding was a relief. Switching to bottles lifted some of the pressure, and with medication and support, I slowly began to recover.

The Maidenhead Postnatal Help Group was a lifeline. Each weekly session was a safe, confidential space led by experienced “listeners.” The group offered something invaluable — understanding, reassurance, and even a crèche so mums could have a hot drink and a breather.

There are also fantastic online communities. On Twitter, hashtags like #PNDChat and #PNDHour connect mums, professionals, and even dads who understand what postnatal depression feels like. For many, it’s a safe first step in asking for help.

My Recovery Journey

I’m still recovering, and going back to work has its challenges. But for the first time, I feel I can enjoy motherhood. Josh’s cheeky laugh is now the highlight of my day.

If You’re Struggling, Please Reach Out

If any of this sounds familiar, please remember: you are not alone. Talk to your partner, a friend, your GP, or your health visitor.

👉 If you’re in Maidenhead, you can contact the Postnatal Help Group by calling or texting 07552 980571. Everything is confidential, and you’ll be welcomed with kindness.

Postnatal depression is treatable. With the right support, you will get better — and joy will return.