Reviewed by: Pavel Kornilov, MD, psychiatrist · updated 6 Nov 2026
Key facts
- ICD-10 code
- F53
- Who you see
- a psychiatrist experienced in perinatal psychiatry, and a psychotherapist
- Format
- video consultations from home, with a flexible schedule around the baby’s routine
- Duration
- first consultation 40–60 minutes, follow-ups 20–40 minutes
- Anonymity
- the consultation is confidential; you do not have to give your surname
- When it is urgent
- thoughts of harming yourself or the baby, confusion, hallucinations — call 103 or 112
- Outcome
- restored mood and energy, and a renewed bond with your baby
What you should know
After a baby is born, a woman is expected to be happy, yet she feels emptiness, anxiety, guilt, sometimes irritation toward the baby and a fear that something is wrong with her. Many stay silent because they are ashamed to admit it: it seems that others will judge them, and relatives will say “everyone goes through this.” But postpartum depression is not a weakness and not bad mothering. It is a medical condition that responds well to treatment, and the sooner it is addressed, the sooner energy and joy return.
For a new mom, the online format is one of the most convenient ways to get help. There is no need to find someone to look after the baby, get ready, drive through Almaty traffic and wait in a hallway. The consultation can take place during the baby’s daytime nap or even with the baby in your arms. A Psychiatry Online psychiatrist assesses your condition, takes breastfeeding into account, suggests treatment options and, if needed, brings in a psychotherapist. Appointments can be scheduled flexibly around the baby’s routine.
Signs of postpartum depression
- low mood, tearfulness and emptiness that last longer than two weeks after giving birth
- constant anxiety about the baby and intrusive fears that something will happen to them
- a sense of detachment from the baby and no joy in spending time with them
- insomnia even when the baby is asleep and you have a chance to rest
- feelings of guilt and thoughts like “I am a bad mother” or “they would be better off without me”
- irritability and outbursts of anger at loved ones or at the baby
- it is hard to make yourself eat, take care of yourself or leave the house
If at least two points apply and the state lasts longer than two weeks, it is worth seeing a specialist. Phone consultation is free. If life is at risk, call 112 or 103.
What causes postpartum depression
After childbirth a woman’s hormone levels change sharply, which affects mood and resilience to stress. On top of that come chronic sleep deprivation, physical recovery and sometimes birth complications or breastfeeding difficulties. The risk is higher with a history of depression or an anxiety disorder, a family history, a difficult pregnancy, lack of support, financial difficulties and conflicts with a partner or relatives.
In a big city many young families live separately from their parents, and the mother is left alone with the baby while her partner spends a long time commuting to and from work. In Almaty this is especially noticeable in new residential complexes on the outskirts, where there is no familiar social circle. On the other hand, the opposite also happens: pressure from older relatives with advice on how to do things “properly.” Both situations can deepen the feeling that you are not coping.
How online help for postpartum depression works
You message us on WhatsApp → the administrator finds a time that fits the baby’s routine → the doctor joins via video call. You can keep the baby next to you or in your arms if that feels calmer. Prepare information about the birth, feeding, any medications you take and whether you have had episodes of depression or anxiety before. The psychiatrist will ask in detail about your mood, sleep, thoughts and relationships with the baby and your loved ones, and then suggest a plan and an appointment schedule.
Postpartum psychosis is a rare but emergency condition: confusion, hallucinations, strange ideas and sudden mood swings. If you notice such signs in yourself or someone close to you, call 103 or 112 immediately. A gynecological examination and lab tests cannot be done online; if necessary, the doctor will refer you to the appropriate specialists. Medications during breastfeeding are chosen only by a doctor and in line with Kazakhstan law.
How we help
Psychotherapy
For mild and moderate postpartum depression, psychotherapy is the main treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy help you cope with guilt, anxiety and changing roles in the family. Sessions take place online; they can be scheduled for the baby’s nap time and rescheduled without stress if needed.
Medication that takes breastfeeding into account
For moderate and severe depression, the psychiatrist may suggest antidepressants. Some medications have been studied in breastfeeding mothers and are considered more compatible with breastfeeding. The doctor discusses the benefits and risks in detail so that you can make a well-considered decision. Medications must not be taken without a doctor’s prescription.
Family support
With the mother’s consent, the doctor can hold a session with her partner or relatives: explain what is happening, how to help and how to share the load so that the mother has a chance to sleep and rest. Family support is one of the strongest factors in recovery, and the online format makes it possible to involve everyone who matters.
Sleep and recovery
Lack of sleep makes depression much worse. The doctor helps you find realistic ways to protect your sleep: taking night shifts with your partner, pumping breast milk, help from relatives. Nutrition, short walks and small steps of self-care are also discussed. This does not replace treatment, but it speeds up recovery and helps other methods work more effectively.
Myths and facts
MythIt is just the baby blues, it will pass on its own
FactThe baby blues is short-term tearfulness in the first days after giving birth that passes within one to two weeks. If symptoms last longer or get worse, it may be postpartum depression, and it needs professional help.
MythTreatment is incompatible with breastfeeding
FactPsychotherapy is fully compatible with breastfeeding. Among antidepressants, there are medications that have been studied in breastfeeding women, and the doctor will help you choose an option weighing the benefits and risks. The decision is made individually.
MythIf I admit it, they will take my baby away
FactSeeking help for depression is a responsible act, not grounds for removing a child. The consultation is confidential, and the doctor helps the mother recover so that she can take care of her baby and herself.
How an online appointment works
- Message or callWrite on WhatsApp or call — our coordinator replies within minutes, day or night. You don't have to give your surname.
- Doctor and timeWe match you with a psychiatrist, addiction specialist or psychotherapist and agree on a time — often the same day.
- Video consultationA secure 50–60 minute video call: the doctor takes a detailed history and uses standardised scales if needed.
- Treatment planYou receive a clear summary, recommendations and a plan: what we do online and what needs an in-person visit or home call.
- Follow-upOnline follow-up sessions, messenger contact with your doctor, and treatment adjustments until you get a stable result.
Prices in Almaty
| Online psychiatrist consultation (50–60 min) | 15 000 ₸ |
| Follow-up online consultation | 12 000 ₸ |
| One month of online psychiatric care | 60 000 ₸ |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
You can book in Almaty online or at one of two branches: 129 Kurmangazy St., office 8, Almaty, 110 Bogenbay batyra St., office 15, Almaty. Our coordinator replies on WhatsApp within minutes at any time, and a doctor usually connects by video the same day; home visits are available too — all city districts and nearby settlements.
Confidential and private
Information about your visit, diagnosis and treatment is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”. We never share it with your employer, school or relatives without your consent; the only exceptions are those expressly set out by law. For an online consultation your first name is enough, video runs over a secure channel and nothing is recorded without your consent.
Questions and answers
Can I have a consultation with my baby in my arms?
Yes, many moms do exactly that. The main thing is that you feel calm and are able to talk. If the baby wakes up or starts crying, the consultation can be paused briefly or rescheduled. The doctor understands the realities of life with a newborn and will not rush you.
How can I tell postpartum depression from ordinary tiredness?
Tiredness eases when you manage to get some sleep. With depression, low mood, anxiety and guilt persist even after rest, and there is no joy in spending time with the baby. If such symptoms last more than two weeks, it is worth talking to a psychiatrist.
Can I take antidepressants while breastfeeding?
Some antidepressants have been studied in breastfeeding mothers and are used when needed. The choice is made by the doctor, weighing the benefits and risks for both mother and baby. You must not start or stop medications on your own. Psychotherapy is fully compatible with breastfeeding.
Can fathers have postpartum depression?
Yes, depression after a baby is born also occurs in fathers, especially with lack of sleep, financial pressure and depression in their partner. A father can also see a psychiatrist online, including in the evening after work, without spending time traveling across the city.
What should I do if I have frightening thoughts about my baby?
Intrusive, frightening thoughts that something bad will happen to the baby are common in postpartum anxiety and do not mean that you will act on them. Be sure to tell your doctor about them. If you have an intention to harm yourself or the baby, call 103 or 112 immediately.
How long until I feel better?
With regular psychotherapy and, if needed, medication, the first improvements often appear within a few weeks. Full recovery takes longer. Online follow-up at Psychiatry Online means you do not have to miss appointments even in the first months of your baby’s life, when getting out of the house is especially hard.
Where can I be seen in Almaty?
Online — from anywhere in the city or region. In person — at two branches: 129 Kurmangazy St., office 8, Almaty and 110 Bogenbay batyra St., office 15, Almaty. Both are open 24/7; home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Psychiatry Online medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) and APA (US) guidelines on the treatment of mental disorders
- WHO recommendations on telemedicine and digital health
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
