The arrival of a baby is often presented as one of the happiest moments in a woman’s life. But for some mothers, the period after childbirth can bring persistent sadness, anxiety, exhaustion and emotional distress that goes far beyond the usual challenges of adjusting to a newborn.

Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that can develop after childbirth. It is not a sign that a mother does not love her baby, nor does it mean she is failing at motherhood. The World Health Organization estimates that about 13% of women who have recently given birth experience a mental health disorder, primarily depression. In developing countries, the figure is estimated at almost 20%.

More than the baby blues

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The first weeks with a newborn can be difficult. Sleep is often disrupted, routines change and a new mother may find herself crying or feeling overwhelmed. These experiences can form part of the so-called “baby blues”, which usually settle within about two weeks.

Postpartum depression is different. Symptoms can last longer and interfere with a woman’s ability to manage everyday life. They may include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, severe anxiety, changes in appetite or sleep, difficulty concentrating, intense guilt, feelings of worthlessness and withdrawing from family or friends.

Some women may struggle to bond with their baby or feel frightened by intrusive thoughts. Thoughts of suicide or harming the baby require immediate professional help.

You cannot always see it

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Postpartum depression does not necessarily look like a mother who cannot get out of bed.

A woman may continue breastfeeding, prepare meals, attend medical appointments and care for her baby while privately struggling. She may even appear cheerful to relatives and friends while feeling emotionally disconnected or overwhelmed when she is alone.

This can make the condition harder to identify. A new mother may also dismiss her symptoms as tiredness or believe she simply needs to cope better.

That is why conversations about maternal mental health need to go beyond whether a mother and baby are physically healthy after delivery.

Support matters

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The pressure surrounding motherhood can make asking for help difficult. Women may worry about being judged, criticised or labelled as ungrateful when they admit that they are struggling.

Practical support can make a difference, whether that means helping with meals, household responsibilities, childcare or simply giving a mother an opportunity to rest and speak honestly about how she is feeling. But support from family should not replace professional care when depression is present.

Postpartum depression is treatable. Depending on the individual’s needs, treatment may include psychotherapy, medication, support groups or a combination of these. A healthcare professional can also discuss appropriate treatment options with mothers who are breastfeeding.

Partners should not be overlooked either. Fathers and other parents can also experience depression and anxiety following the birth of a child.

Knowing when it is an emergency

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Postpartum depression should also be distinguished from postpartum psychosis, a rare but serious condition that can involve hallucinations, delusions, severe confusion or paranoia. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

For everyone else, the message is simpler: a mother does not have to wait until she is completely overwhelmed before seeking help.

Having a baby can be a major life change, but struggling emotionally does not make a woman a bad mother. Recognising the problem early, speaking to a healthcare professional and accepting support can be an important part of recovery.

Apple cider vinegar is no longer used only in cooking. It is now found in skincare routines, wellness drinks, hair care products and household cleaning cupboards. Its widespread use has also fuelled countless health claims, making it difficult to separate proven benefits from popular myths.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made by fermenting crushed apples. During fermentation, the natural sugars are converted into alcohol and then into acetic acid, the compound responsible for its sharp taste and many of its studied effects. Unfiltered versions also contain a cloudy substance known as “the mother”, but most research focuses on the vinegar’s acetic acid rather than the mother itself.

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Research has mainly focused on ACV’s effect on blood sugar after meals. Some studies suggest that drinking diluted apple cider vinegar with a meal may help reduce the rise in blood glucose after eating carbohydrates. Researchers believe acetic acid may slow stomach emptying and improve the body’s response to insulin. While these findings are encouraging, ACV is not a treatment for diabetes, and anyone taking blood sugar lowering medication should speak to a healthcare professional before using it regularly.

Many people also use apple cider vinegar to support weight management. Some research suggests it may increase feelings of fullness, which could reduce calorie intake, but the effect is modest. It should be viewed as one part of a balanced lifestyle, not a shortcut to losing weight.

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Skincare is another area where apple cider vinegar attracts attention. Because it is acidic and has mild antimicrobial properties, some people use it as a toner or spot treatment. However, dermatologists warn against applying undiluted apple cider vinegar directly to the skin. It can cause irritation and, in some cases, chemical burns. If used at all, it should be well diluted and patch tested first. People with eczema, rosacea or sensitive skin should be especially cautious.

Apple cider vinegar has also become a popular hair rinse. A diluted rinse may help remove product build up and leave hair looking smoother. However, it cannot repair damaged hair, prevent hair loss or change hair texture. Using it too often may dry out the hair and irritate the scalp, so occasional use is generally enough.

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Its usefulness extends beyond personal care. Apple cider vinegar adds flavour to salad dressings and marinades, helps neutralise some household odours and can be used to clean certain non stone surfaces. It should not be used on marble, granite or other natural stone because the acid can damage these materials.

Despite its popularity, there are common mistakes to avoid. Drinking undiluted apple cider vinegar can erode tooth enamel and irritate the throat and oesophagus. Taking large amounts may also cause digestive discomfort and contribute to low potassium levels in some people. Using a straw and rinsing the mouth with water afterwards may help reduce contact with teeth.

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For most healthy adults, experts generally recommend limiting intake to one or two tablespoons diluted in a large glass of water, preferably with a meal. People with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, stomach ulcers, severe acid reflux or those taking insulin, diuretics or certain heart medications should seek medical advice before making it a regular part of their routine.

Apple cider vinegar has both proven uses and clear limitations. Current research supports modest blood sugar benefits, while evidence for many other claims remains limited. Used sensibly, it can be a useful kitchen ingredient with a few evidence backed health applications and practical household uses. It should not be seen as a cure all, but it can still earn a place in everyday life when used safely.

Feeling tired after a busy week is normal. Feeling drained every day, even after a full night’s sleep, is not. While stress, poor sleep and demanding schedules are common causes of fatigue, persistent exhaustion can sometimes be linked to liver problems.

The liver performs hundreds of essential functions that keep the body running properly. It filters toxins from the blood, produces bile to aid digestion, stores nutrients, regulates blood sugar and processes medications. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, these functions may become less effective, which can contribute to ongoing fatigue.

Fatigue alone does not mean you have liver disease. However, if it is persistent and comes with other symptoms, it’s worth paying attention.

Why Liver Problems Can Make You Feel Tired

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Researchers have found that fatigue is one of the most common complaints among people with chronic liver disease. The exact reason is complex, but experts believe inflammation, changes in brain chemistry, poor energy metabolism and disrupted sleep all contribute.

The liver plays an important role in processing nutrients and supporting the body’s energy metabolism. When it is damaged or inflamed, these processes may not work as efficiently. At the same time, toxins that would normally be removed from the bloodstream may build up, affecting how the brain and body function.

Signs Your Liver May Need Attention

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Tiredness is only one possible warning sign. Other symptoms that could point to liver problems include:

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen

Swelling in the legs, ankles or abdomen

Dark urine or pale stools

Itchy skin without an obvious cause

Loss of appetite

Nausea or vomiting

Unexplained weight loss

Easy bruising or bleeding

Some liver conditions develop slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms until significant damage has already occurred. This is why routine health check-ups can be important, especially for people with known risk factors.

Common Causes of Liver Disease

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Not all liver problems are linked to alcohol. In fact, one of the fastest-growing liver conditions worldwide is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, now more commonly referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

Several factors can increase the risk of liver disease, including:

Obesity or excess body weight

Type 2 diabetes

High cholesterol or high triglycerides

Excessive alcohol consumption

Viral hepatitis

Certain medications taken over long periods

Family history of liver disease

Many people with early fatty liver disease feel perfectly well, while others report ongoing fatigue.

When Should You See a Doctor?

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If your fatigue lasts for several weeks despite getting enough sleep and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it’s a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional. This is especially important if you also notice yellowing of the eyes, swelling, abdominal pain or unexplained weight loss.

A doctor may recommend blood tests to check liver function, imaging scans such as an ultrasound or additional investigations depending on your symptoms and medical history.

Can You Improve Liver Health?

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The liver can regenerate to some extent, especially when damage is identified early. Healthy habits can reduce your risk of liver disease and support overall liver function.

These include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains and lean protein, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, managing diabetes and cholesterol, and avoiding unnecessary use of medications or supplements that may affect the liver.

It’s also important to be cautious with herbal products marketed as “liver cleanses”. There is little scientific evidence that detox drinks or cleanse programmes improve liver health, and some supplements have been linked to liver injury.

What to Remember

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Feeling tired all the time does not automatically mean something is wrong with your liver. Poor sleep, stress, anaemia, thyroid disorders and many other conditions can also cause persistent fatigue.

However, if your exhaustion doesn’t improve or is accompanied by other warning signs, don’t ignore it. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in treating liver disease and preventing long-term complications.

Persistent fatigue deserves medical attention, particularly if it occurs alongside other symptoms.