On average, 1 in 7 moms and 1 in 10 dads experience postpartum depression, according to officials.
Postpartum Support International provides some fast facts on postpartum depression:
- It is the number one complication of childbirth
- Symptoms can appear any time during pregnancy and during the first year after childbirth
- Women may experience depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar mood disorders or postpartum psychosis
To view a full list of risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, click here. You can also find an extensive resource list from the Arizona chapter of the organization by clicking here.
Below are questions you can ask yourself if you believe you may be experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders:
- Are you feeling sad or depressed?
- Do you feel more irritable or angry with those around you?
- Are you having difficulty bonding with your baby?
- Do you feel anxious or panicky?
- Are you having problems with eating or sleeping?
- Are you having upsetting thoughts that you can’t get out of your mind?
- Do you feel as if you are “out of control” or “going crazy”?
- Do you feel like you never should have become a mother?
- Are you worried that you might hurt your baby or yourself?
The organizations listed below offer more information, as well as possible services to help those in need:
Postpartum Support International
Postpartum Support International, Arizona chapter
Women's Health Innovations of Arizona - A non-profit organization in the east Valley area, offering specialized counseling and support for women and families
Matrescence 4th Trimester Planning + Support - A local postpartum planning and support services organization
ASU's Clinical Psychology Center - Offers low-cost counseling and a support group for expecting mothers
Support Groups Central - Online support groups for topics ranging from depression to perinatal mood support
2020 Mom - A national organization aiming to close gaps in maternal mental health care
Birth to Five Helpline - Free statewide support for parents and caregivers who have questions or concerns during pregnancy, postpartum and the early years of their baby’s life
If you want to get in touch with someone who can help, the following lines are available to help:
Postpartum Support International AZ Warmline 1-888-434-MOMS
Postpartum Support International National HelpLine 1-800-944-4PPD (4773), or text 503-894-9453
AZ Crisis Hotline 602-222-9444
National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Birth to Five Helpline 1-877-705-5437
