Did you know: Symptoms of depression and anxiety occur in ten to twenty percent of expectant new mothers. This means that these emotional symptoms are the most common complication of pregnancy, affecting up to 800,000 women per year in the USA.

Did you know: Perinatal depression and anxiety can occur during pregnancy and up to the first year after the birth or adoption of a baby. It can happen to ANY WOMAN! Age, education, culture and socioeconomic status are irrelevant.

Did you know: 50-80% of ALL new mothers will experience the “Baby Blues”. The distress experienced by many women can be very unsettling: frequent and prolonged crying, restlessness, irritability and anxiety are the most frequently seen symptoms. It usually occurs within the first 3 days following birth, may continue a few weeks, and is usually self-limiting.

Did you know: Nearly 20% of ALL new mothers will experience postpartum depression with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. New mothers are seldom prepared for the uphill battle in the weeks and months following childbirth. It is a time of mental, emotional and physical adjustment.

Postpartum depression is a misnomer; symptoms of anxiety in new mothers are more common.

Warning signs during pregnancy or postpartum includes difficulties with sleeping, eating, or caring for herself or the baby, thoughts about hurting herself or the baby, or intense feelings of energy, anxiety, or sadness.

Postpartum obsessions, thought about harm that can come to the baby, affect 3-5% of new mothers. These thoughts represent no danger to the baby, and can be distinguished from postpartum psychosis, where there is risk for the baby.

Education is the first line of defense, because realistic expectations about new parenthood can decrease the occurrence of depression and anxiety.

Help is available! These disorders are treatable and you will feel better!