Recommended screening tools for identifying postnatal depression in new mothers include the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). These tools should be used as part of monitoring at all postnatal contacts, alongside asking the two depression identification questions as part of a general discussion about the woman's mental health and well-being.
At each postnatal contact, healthcare professionals should ask about the woman's emotional well-being, family and social support, and coping strategies, encouraging disclosure of any mood or behavioural changes outside the woman's normal pattern.
Where there is a positive response to depression identification questions or clinical concern, the EPDS or PHQ-9 should be used for a full assessment or to guide referral to a GP or mental health professional.
Additionally, the 2-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-2) may be used to screen for anxiety, with further assessment by GAD-7 if indicated.