What Every New Parent Needs To Know About Postpartum Depression

1. It’s very common but it is not normal. It occurs in 10% of new parents.
2. It is severely under-diagnosed. Approximately 66% of new parents suffering from PPD go undiagnosed.
3. Rates of PPD peak around 7 months after birth.
4. Trauma at birth and breastfeeding challenges increase your risk for PPD.
5. Going back to work less than 6 months after birth increases your risk for PPD by approximately 25%.
6. PPD isn’t just suicidal thoughts or thoughts about causing harm to the baby; those are only some of the most severe manifestations. PPD symptoms generally occur in a range, and people suffering from PPD can be highly functional
7. Symptoms are often lumped together with common postpartum challenges — lack of sleep, loneliness and isolation, lack of sex drive, fatigue, and not leaving the house. The symptoms to pay particular attention to are severe weight loss or gain, and even more importantly, the feeling of a fundamental change in one’s old self.
8. Depression can also show up prenatally (Perinatal Depression) and can occur in men and partners as well (Paternal/Partner Postpartum Depression).
9. Every parent should get the research app PPD ACT. We recommend setting a reminder on your phone to take the test every 2 months.
10. Often, it’s a partner, close friend or family member vocalizing the change in a new parent that causes that person to acknowledge suffering from and seek help for PPD.
11. If you are diagnosed with PPD, practice self care and seek support and counseling.
12. PPD Resources: Babies On The Brain, The Gianna Center for Women’s Health, Seleni Institute, Infant Risk Center (a hotline offering recommendations regarding taking prescription medications while breastfeeding).

Research, statistics, tips and references provided by Jena Booher, Founder of Babies On The Brain.