Parental Mental Health
- Almost all women are expected to experience what's called "baby blues" which is a period of depression shortly after giving birth, which ought to last no longer than a few weeks.
- Beyond the few weeks of "baby blues", women may continue to experience this depression and may be suffering from "postpartum depression" or PPD.
- 1 in 7 moms will experience PPD.
- In lower income areas it can be as high as 1 in 4 or as high as 1 in 3 moms, that's 25-33%.
- 1 to 2 in 1000 moms will experience a more severe form of PPD called "postpartum psychosis" which involves delusions and hallucinations, which in its most extreme occurrences, may lead to fatal consequences for both child and mom.
- Please check out some or all of the following videos related to PPD.
- Here are a few resources you can use to determine if it may be a good idea to consult with your primary care physician, OBGYN, pediatrician, or mental health professional.
- Postpartum Frequently Asked Questions (Jenny's Light)
- Postpartum Depression Checklist (CDC)
If you believe you may be experiencing PPD, it's OK to seek help. Here are some options:
- Make an appointment with your primary care physician (PCP).
- Call your health plan/insurance and ask for some referrals to see a therapist.
- Look for postpartum support groups in your area, if you don't know where to start, call 211 in California for some local resources.
- Familiarize yourself with local perinatal mental health organizations such as the Inland Empire Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative (IEPMHC).
