Postpartum Depression

What it can look like:

Postpartum depression often feels like sadness, heaviness, or numbness that won’t lift. You might cry easily, feel hopeless, or wonder if you made a mistake in becoming a parent. Some people lose interest in things they used to enjoy or feel disconnected from their baby.

Common symptoms:

Feeling sad, tearful, or emotionally flat most of the day
Guilt, shame, or feeling like you’re not a “good enough” parent
Fatigue that rest doesn’t fix
Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
Changes in appetite or sleep
Thoughts like “My family would be better off without me”

What helps:

Talking to a perinatal-trained therapist or your OB
Medication if recommended — antidepressants can be safe and effective postpartum
Gentle activity, social connection, sunlight, and realistic self-compassion
Reminding yourself: You did not cause this. You can feel better.

When to reach out:

If these symptoms last more than two weeks or make daily life hard, reach out for help. Visit postpartum.net or call 1-800-944-4773 for free, confidential support.

9:00 am – 9:00 pm