Postpartum Depression • Back to For Parents A Postpartum Depression support group may be available in your area, call the Health Unit at 1-800-660-5853 for more information. So what is Postpartum Depression? Pregnancy and the early weeks and months after having a baby can be a very exciting time in a family’s life.  It is also a time of adjustment. A wide range of emotions can be experienced and sometimes these emotions can be overwhelming.  Mood disorders in pregnancy and the first year after a baby is born can happen to women. It is important to know what these are and when and where to get help. The Baby Blues Affects 50 to 80% of new mothers.  Occurs within the first 3 to 5 days after the birth of the baby.  Women’s moods may shift quickly from being happy to very tearful.  May also experience sleep and appetite changes.  No treatment needed other than support from her partner, family and friends is needed.  The Blues are usually gone within two weeks. Postpartum Depression Is one of the most common complications of childbearing.  It can affect 10 to 15% of new mothers. The strongest risk factors for Postpartum Depression include: symptoms of depression or anxiety during pregnancy, past history of depression for the woman or her immediate family, lack of social support and a recent stressful life event. The symptoms can begin anytime in the first year after the birth of the baby. In general, the feelings described with the Baby Blues become more intense and last longer than two weeks.  Difficulty coping with their day-to-day activities.  May experience symptoms of severe anxiety or obsessive-compulsive behaviour. Unlike the Baby Blues, Postpartum Depression does require medical attention. Postpartum Psychosis Is much less common than the Blues or Depression.  It affects 1 to 2 women in 1000.  It usually begins suddenly, often in the first few days after delivery.  It can include thoughts and beliefs of things that are not actually real.  Women with Psychosis are at risk of harming themselves or their children.  Postpartum Psychosis requires immediate hospitalization. Postpartum mood disorders will affect a number of women.  The important thing to remember is that there is help available. For more information visit these sites: Pacific Post Partum support society Depression After Delivery of Washington Post partum support international Canadian Pediatric Society - Depression in pregnant women and mothers: How children are affected Best Start Resource Centre - Life with a new baby