Resources for Postpartum Depression

What is Postpartum Depression (PPD)?

The postpartum period refers to the time after childbirth. Many new mothers experience a brief period known as the “baby blues” in the first few days after giving birth. This is often due to the hormonal changes and adjusting to life with your new baby. The baby blues usually last for about 3 to 5 days.

However, if feelings of sadness, loneliness, or emptiness persist for longer than two weeks, it may be a sign of Postpartum Depression (PPD). Research shows that 1 in 9 women experience PPD. Symptoms may include:

  • Anger

  • Anxiety, Fear

  • Guilt or worthlessness

  • Mood swings

  • Crying or irritability

  • Lack of interest in people and activities

  • Feelings of sadness

  • Lack of appetite

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Severe fatigue

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Negative feelings about the baby

  • Thoughts of hurting yourself or the baby

  • Feeling confused, seeing or hearing things that aren’t there, or having thoughts that don’t make sense

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your OB/GYN for support and guidance. If you hare having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, go to an emergency room or call 911. Don’t wait for things to get better on their own.

What is Postpartum Anxiety (PPA)?

It’s normal to worry about your new baby—whether they are eating enough, hitting milestones, or sleeping well. Many new parents have these concerns. However, if your anxiety feels overwhelming, if you’re constantly on edge, and if you find yourself obsessing over these worries, you may be experiencing Postpartum Anxiety.

What is Postpartum Rage? (PPR)

Postpartum rage refers to intense feelings of anger or irritability that some new mothers experience after giving birth. It can be a part of a broader condition called postpartum mood disorders, which includes postpartum depression and anxiety. Postpartum rage is characterized by sudden, overwhelming outbursts of anger, frustration, or irritability, often in response to seemingly small triggers.

Seeking Help

There are many resources available to support you through PPD and PPA. The first step is to talk to your OB/GYN. They can help by providing a screening form to better understand how you’re feeling. Based on your responses, they can guide you through your options, which may include therapy, support groups, or medication. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, go to an emergency room or call 911. Don’t wait for things to get better on their own. The safety of you and your baby is at stake.

Taking Care of Yourself.

Along with getting treatment, there are other ways you can speed up your recovery. You need and deserve to take good care of yourself during this time. Here are some ways to do this:

  • Stay close to people who can support you. Don't shut out concerned family and friends. Talk to them about how you're feeling. Let them help in practical ways. If you know other new moms, get together and share your experiences.

  • Don't be alone. If your depression symptoms are severe, ask a family member or friend to stay with you if your partner has to go to work.

  • Try to get some physical activity every day. For example, taking a walk outdoors with your baby can help your mood. (If you have other children, ask someone to watch them while you get some exercise.

  • Take it easy on yourself. Don't worry about getting everything done. It's okay to lower your expectations, and it's okay to ask for help.

  • Try to get enough sleep. If you're having trouble sleeping, take a nap while your baby is asleep. If you have other children, it may help to have someone watch them so you get some sleep while the baby sleeps.

  • Make healthy food choices. Try to eat more fruit and vegetables and drink plenty of water. Stay away from alcohol.

  • Make time for yourself. Let someone watch the baby (and other kids, if you have them), so you can do something you enjoy. For example, take a long shower, have some alone time with your partner, or eat lunch with a friend.

Resources & Support Services

 
 

Therapists Available for Support

Books for Support

  • The Fourth Trimester by Kimberly Ann Johnson

  • This Isn’t What I Expected by Karen Kleiman and Valerie Raskin

  • Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts by Karen Kleiman

  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook by Pamela Wiegartz, PhD, and Kevin Gyoerkoe, PsyD

  • The Postpartum Depression Workbook by Abigail Burd, LCSW, PMH-C

  • Beyond the Blues by Shoshana S. Bennett, PhD and Ped Indman, PA, EdD, MFT, PMH-C

Support Groups

  • The Family Place - Family Education Servies. Offers free programs for families including parenting classes, stepfamily classes, home visiting programs, body safety programs for children and mental health first aid training. Phone: (435) 752-8880 link: http://thefamilyplaceutah.org

  • River Hollow Mental Health provides a free weekly skills and support groups for adults (18+). This group is a space to learn practical coping strategies, strengthen resilience, and connect with others. They meet every Wednesday at 6:00 Pm at 40 W Cache Valley Blvd Suite 7A Logan, Ut 84341. Phone: (435) 538-2152 link: http://riverhollow.org

  • Cache Valley Moms on Facebook: A supportive Facebook group offering advice, meetups, and friendship.

  • Legendairy Mamas on Facebook: A breastfeeding support group run by lactation consultants, offering help and advice.

  • Intermountain Medical Center - Facebook online postpartum wellness group (801) 507-7544, email: allysonbrowning@imail.org

If you need further information or assistance, you can always reach out to our Case Manager, who is here to support you every step of the way.

Remember, You’re Not Alone
Postpartum depression and anxiety are more common than you might think, and there is absolutely no shame in experiencing them. Your feelings are valid, and many women go through similar experiences. Reach out to your OB/GYN, pediatrician, or loved ones for support—you're not alone in this journey.

You are doing an amazing job, mama. Always remember, you are the BEST mom for your baby!