Having a baby changes everything at once: your body, your sleep, your relationships, your sense of who you are. Some emotional ups and downs are expected. But when sadness, worry, or numbness sticks around or gets heavier, it may be postpartum depression, and it's one of the most treatable conditions there is.
Baby blues or something more?
The baby blues are very common in the first two weeks after birth. You might cry easily, feel overwhelmed, or swing between happy and teary. It usually fades on its own within a couple of weeks.
Postpartum depression is different. It lasts longer, feels heavier, and gets in the way of daily life. It can start during pregnancy or anytime in the first year after birth. Signs include:
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the day
- Losing interest in things, including the baby
- Constant worry, panic, or racing thoughts
- Trouble sleeping even when the baby is asleep
- Feeling like a bad parent, or that your family would be better off without you
Anxiety is just as common after birth as depression and deserves the same attention. Partners can experience postpartum depression too.
When to get help right away
If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, hear or see things others don't, or feel confused and out of touch with reality, get help immediately. Call 911 or 988. Postpartum psychosis is rare, but it's an emergency. You can also call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262, any time of day.
What treatment looks like
Treatment usually includes support, therapy, medication, or a combination. Many medications are considered compatible with breastfeeding, and we'll go over the options with you so you can make an informed choice. You don't have to choose between your health and feeding your baby the way you want.
At Mind & Metabolism, women's and maternal mental health is a focus of our care. We offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management for depression and anxiety during pregnancy and after birth, and visits by telehealth mean you can be seen from home with your baby nearby.
If you or someone you love is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911. Mind & Metabolism is an outpatient practice and can't provide emergency care.
Ready to talk with someone?
Our board-certified psychiatric providers see teens and adults across Washington State by telehealth, with limited in-person visits in Lakewood. Most major insurance accepted.
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