Moms,

We've seen quite a few posts from moms who look like they are suffering from either prenatal and postpartum depression. This is nothing to be ashamed about and we must support women going through this. Below are numbers and a link to find counseling. Also, we are always here if you need someone to talk to.

According to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), between 14-23% of women will struggle with some symptoms of depression during and after pregnancy. Women with depression usually experience some of the following symptoms for 2 weeks or more:

Persistent sadness

Difficulty concentrating

Sleeping too little or too much

Loss of interest in activities that you usually enjoy

Recurring thoughts of death, suicide, or hopelessness

Anxiety

Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

Change in eating habits

Postpartum depression symptoms:

Postpartum depression may be mistaken for baby blues (which affect up to 80% of women) at first — but the signs and symptoms are more intense and last longer, eventually interfering with your ability to care for your baby and handle other daily tasks. Symptoms usually develop within the first few weeks after giving birth, but may begin later — up to six months after birth.

Postpartum depression symptoms may include:

Depressed mood or severe mood swings

Excessive crying

Difficulty bonding with your baby

Withdrawing from family and friends

Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual

Inability to sleep (insomnia) or sleeping too much

Overwhelming fatigue or loss of energy

Reduced interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy

Intense irritability and anger

Fear that you're not a good mother

Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt or inadequacy

Diminished ability to think clearly, concentrate or make decisions

Severe anxiety and panic attacks

Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Untreated, postpartum depression may last for many months or longer.

Postpartum psychosis

With postpartum psychosis — a rare condition that typically develops within the first week after delivery — the signs and symptoms are even more severe. Signs and symptoms may include:

Confusion and disorientation

Obsessive thoughts about your baby

Hallucinations and delusions

Sleep disturbances

Paranoia

Attempts to harm yourself or your baby

Postpartum psychosis may lead to life-threatening thoughts or behaviors and requires immediate treatment.

Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or use this link to find a counselor ссылка

We need to support these women and not judge them. If you think someone is going through depression or needs our help, please message us right away.

Best wishes,

mom.life_USA