Understanding Postpartum & Perinatal Mood Disorders

Most people have heard of postpartum depression, but that is just one of many mental health concerns or Postpartum & Perinatal Mood Disorders (PPMDs) that mothers can face. Like any new challenge, people have the potential to respond differently based on their mental health history, hormone levels, and many other factors. Postpartum mental health concerns are far more common than people realize partially because many mothers feel too much shame and guilt to talk about it. They are afraid of being judged as a bad mother even though these concerns are quite normal and treatable. The intense feelings and intrusive thoughts that many moms experience are the product of hormones brought on by having the baby, and they are in no way a reflection of the mom or her ability to care for their child. It is important to understand PPMDs and help provide new parents with the support they need. 

· Postpartum Depression- This incredibly common concern is more than having “baby blues,” which typically only lasts a few weeks. New moms with postpartum depression can feel extremely irritable, depressed, and hopeless. This can lead to moms feeling like they are having a hard time connecting with their baby, which typically leads to a lot of guilt. Many new parents can feel alone in their feelings, and the shame they experience can make it hard for them to reach out for help.

· Postpartum Anxiety- This is actually the most commonly experienced PPMD. There are so many fears that come with becoming a parent, and most new parents feel like they don’t know what they are doing. There is an abundance of information out there about babies, but sometimes that information can be conflicting. Mothers can feel overwhelmed by all the different choices that come with preparing for and taking care of a baby. 

· Postpartum Rage- Like other postpartum concerns, postpartum rage can involve intense feelings and intrusive thoughts. This can feel very scary for new moms who are already emotionally exhausted. It is important to know you are not a bad mom for having these feelings and thoughts, and there are people who can help you without judging you. 

· Postpartum Psychosis- This is the least common PPMD, affecting only 0.1% of new moms. However, this condition is quite serious. It can involve delusions, hallucinations, hyperactivity, refusal to eat, paranoia, etc. This condition requires immediate medical attention and should not be ignored. 

PPMDs may present themselves during pregnancy, right after the baby is born, and/or several months later. Many mothers experience the onset of symptoms throughout the first year of the baby’s life. If you know any young mothers, don’t hesitate to check in on them! If you are a new mom, you are not alone, and there are people who are here to help you! 

Resources:

Postpartum Support International: https://www.postpartum.net/

Postpartum Health Alliance: https://postpartumhealthalliance.org/