Postpartum Depression: Signs and Support

After delivery, hormonal changes and lack of sleep can make you feel sad, anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed. These feelings are common. Eating well, resting when you can, and asking for support can help.

If these feelings get worse or last longer than two weeks, you may have postpartum depression (PPD). If you have any concerns, contact your doctor.

Signs of Postpartum Depression

• Feeling sad, helpless, angry, or overwhelmed
• Crying a lot
• Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby
• Eating too little or too much
• Sleeping too little or too much
• No energy or motivation
• Trouble remembering things, focusing, or making decisions
• Feeling worthless, guilty, or like a bad parent
• No interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Headaches, body aches, or stomach problems that don’t go away

How to Get Help

If you think you might have postpartum depression (PPD):

• Talk with your health care provider.
• Call Postpartum Support International: 1-800-944-4773.
• Visit postpartum.net/get-help.

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby:

• Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255.
• Call or text 988 for crisis support.

Remember to Take Care of Yourself

Many parents experience postpartum depression. You don’t have to navigate this alone. With support, things will get better.

Here are a few tips that could help: