A Quick Guide to Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression

What is it?

Simply put postpartum depression is depression that occurs after childbirth.

Facts

There is no single cause of postpartum depression, but physical and emotional issues may play a role.

After childbirth, a dramatic drop in hormones (estrogen and progesterone) in your body may contribute to postpartum depression.

1 in 8 women will suffer from it.

Effects

· Bonding with your child

· It can affect the parenting of other children

· Breast feeding

Things to watch for in mom

· 2 weeks or more of low mood

· Anxiety

· An increase or decrease in appetite

· Isolation

· Helplessness

· Disturbances in sleep

If you notice these symptoms in a woman who has recently had a child what can you do?

· Encourage mom to reach out for help

Primary care doctor

Behavioral health provider

Spiritual counselor

Pastor/Priest

· Let her know you are available whether it is in person or via skype/zoom

Things to keep in mind…

· COVID-19 adds to our fears

· There can be a fear of exposing our children to disease

· For the mother who has not yet delivered there can be a fear of delivering alone

How can we help?

If you or someone you know is suffering from postpartum depression, please call the clinic nearest you. We can get you in with your primary care provider or get you set up with a Behavioral Health Specialist. If you know a woman who has recently become pregnant we offer our BLOOM prenatal program. In BLOOM she will receive medical care, behavioral health care, support from a prenatal home visiting nurse, and a community of other mothers.

Visit options

· In person

· Telehealth (Tyto care)

· Telephone