Every new baby is one-of-a-kind, and so is every parent. Some parents seem to sail through pregnancy and parenthood with ease. Others ride a roller coaster of emotions, feeling happy and excited one minute, lonely and sad the next.

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), also known as Postpartum Depression, can affect anyone who:

Is currently pregnant.
Has recently had a baby.
Has ended a pregnancy or miscarried.
Has stopped breastfeeding.

Whether symptoms are mild or serious, if they last longer than two weeks or affect a person’s ability to enjoy their daily life, loved ones should encourage the parent to seek help. Early intervention is crucial to help patents and their families have a healthy, long-lasting outcome.

PMAD can appear days or even months to a year after childbirth. 1 out of 8 people experience PMAD. Warning signs are different for everyone, but can include:

Appetite changes.
Feeling anxious, hopeless, exhausted or crying uncontrollably.
Feeling guilty or worthless.
Feeling angry, irritable or nervous.
Trouble concentrating or sleeping.
Thoughts of harming self or baby.
Lack of interest in baby.
Lack of interest in sexual activity.

You are not alone … help and support is available. For more information, please email [email protected] or drop by Hope for Mothers, no registration needed! Infants are welcome.