Postpartum Depression — YOU Could Be One of the Seven

Postpartum Depression (PPD) and related mood disorders can strike any time in the first year after having a child. These conditions, which often present with uncontrollable crying, deep depression, hopelessness, extreme anxiety, rage, insomnia, or intrusive thoughts are 100% treatable. While they are not "normal" and do not discriminate, they are very common, impacting at least one in every seven women who gives birth. If you believe you are suffering from postpartum psychosis, which impacts approximately 1-2% of women after they give birth and is marked by delusions and urges to harm yourself or others, it is a medical emergency, so please contact a crisis hotline or go to your local ER immediately.

Could I Have PPD?
You may be wondering if you could be suffering from PPD. If you're looking for a resource that explains the signs of postpartum depression and anxiety, Katherine Stone, the founder and editor of the Postpartum Progress blog and nonprofit, offers a helpful tool. It contains the signs and symptoms of PPD in "plain mama English." That means there are no confusing terms, only words that make sense to everyone. You can view and download these free handouts to bring to your provider.

If you believe you may be suffering from postpartum depression, anxiety or OCD, you may also wish to complete the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) to help identify your symptoms. Next, undergo an evaluation performed by a mental health professional, preferably a specialist in Perinatal Mood Disorders. (You might choose to take the EPDS to your appointment with you.) Complete a physical (including comprehensive blood work) by a general health practitioner. Follow with a treatment plan formulated by your team of providers.

If you have a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder, remember that you are not alone, and it is not your fault. Be kind and gentle with yourself as you get as much sleep or rest as you can manage, and consider individual or group peer support. Try to balance intentional bonding time with baby and time to yourself, using your gut as your guide. Eat healthy and balanced meals and snacks and stay very hydrated with water. If you're able to, make time for moderate exercise, particularly time spent outdoors. Accept and ask for support and practical help from family and/or friends.



Amber Koter-Puline is a survivor of Postpartum Depression and Anxiety (2007) and the author of Beyond Postpartum. She is also an Atlanta Postpartum Support Group Facilitator. Her mission is to End the Mommy Wars and to provide maternal mental health support to every family who needs it in the Atlanta metro area and beyond.