Postpartum Mental Health: What's Normal and When to Get Help

Mental health struggles are common postpartum. Here's what to know.

Baby Blues (Normal)

Affects up to 80% of new parents. Mood swings, crying, anxiety, difficulty sleeping. Starts within days of birth, resolves within 2 weeks.

Postpartum Depression (Needs Help)

Affects 10-15% of new parents. Symptoms: persistent sadness, hopelessness, difficulty bonding, severe anxiety, thoughts of self-harm. Lasts beyond 2 weeks.

Postpartum Anxiety

Racing thoughts, constant worry about baby's safety, physical symptoms (racing heart, nausea), difficulty relaxing.

When to Get Help

• Symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks
• Difficulty functioning daily
• Thoughts of harming yourself or baby
• Feeling disconnected from baby

Treatment works. Call your OB, midwife, or a mental health professional.