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 hopeformotherssupportgroup@samhealth.org or drop by Hope for Mothers, no registration needed! Infants are welcome.
Register by Phone: 541-415-7872