Parenting isn’t always easy, and parenting a new baby can be especially challenging for first-time parents. For some parents, these challenges are made even more difficult by postpartum depression, anxiety or another mood disorder.

If you’re feeling disconnected, inadequate or overwhelmed, you aren’t alone — one in eight women experience postpartum depression after giving birth. 

Whether you’re a new mom or have had multiple children, MU Health Care is here to support you as you adjust to a new role, new routines and new relationship dynamics.

What is Postpartum Depression?

Many new mothers experience the “baby blues” a few days after delivery — usually by day three or four. You may feel irritable or sad and notice changes in your sleep or appetite. The blues can last several days, but they tend to go away on their own.

Postpartum depression lasts longer than a few days. It typically starts in the first six weeks after childbirth. The symptoms of postpartum depression not only last longer but are also more intense than the baby blues.

Additionally, while the symptoms may be similar to depression, postpartum depression is specifically related to childbirth. Depression can happen at any time, whereas postpartum depression may occur in the first year after delivery. It’s also important to note both mothers and fathers can experience symptoms of postpartum depression after the birth of a child.

Postpartum Depression Symptoms

Postpartum depression symptoms include: 

• Changes in appetite or sleep
• Confusion and inability to concentrate
• Deep sadness
• Feeling overwhelmed, empty or numb
• Guilt
• Intrusive thoughts
• Irritability and anger
• Not feeling bonded to your baby

If you’re worried about your mood, our perinatal psychiatry team is here to help. Our caring behavioral health specialists help mothers and fathers experiencing postpartum depression feel better.

When to Get Emergency Help

When symptoms reach extreme levels, it may be a sign of postpartum psychosis. Symptoms that indicate a need for emergency medical attention include: 

• Extreme confusion
• Delusions
• Disorganized thinking
• Hallucinations
• Out of touch with reality
• Paranoia

If you (or your partner) are in danger of hurting yourself or someone else, get immediate help. Call our regional crisis hotline at 1-800-395-2132, or call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Other Postpartum Mental Health Concerns

Postpartum depression isn’t the only issue you may experience as a new parent. Postpartum anxiety and postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can also affect many new moms.

No matter your concerns, our caring team is here to listen and provide personalized treatment based on your specific needs.

How We Treat Postpartum Depression

At MU Health Care, we specialize in treating all postpartum mood disorders, including depression. We take time to understand your specific concerns and develop a personalized plan for you. Your plan may include a combination of self-care, therapy and medication.

Self-Care

Although caring for your baby might be your primary concern during this time, self-care is especially important. Consider these strategies:

• Eat a healthy diet.
• Take a walk outside.
• Ask someone you trust, like a partner, friend or grandparent, to watch your baby while you do something you enjoy.
• Talk to a trusted friend or family member.
• Join a support group like Tiger Tot Mommies.

Outpatient Therapy and Prescription Medication

If you think you may have postpartum depression, we are here to support you. Our team will ask how you’re feeling and may give you a short questionnaire. If we think you would benefit from therapy, we offer many options for outpatient psychotherapy appointments, including telehealth for psychiatry and perinatal psychiatry. 

Prescription medications such as antidepressants are another option that we may suggest.

Inpatient Care

For women with moderate to severe postpartum depression, MU Health Care offers specialized inpatient treatment. This treatment is a three-day inpatient hospital stay. The medication helps women typically feel better within 24-48 hours after beginning the treatment. This requires a doctor’s referral and is one of our interventional psychiatry treatments.