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Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

If you are experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, you are not alone. There is help, and you will get better.

  • It's important that you talk to your health care provider and receive support. Your health care provider may order some tests just to make sure that there is no other medical reason for the symptoms.
  • Medication is one option that can help you feel better. Learn what you can about the medication you are being prescribed. Know that there are now many medications that are compatible with breastfeeding.
  • You may benefit from counseling. Having the opportunity to share your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust and is knowledgeable about postpartum mood disorder can be reassuring and encouraging.
  • Learn as much as you can about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Knowing about and understanding what is happening can make it less frightening.

  • Understand that postpartum mood and anxiety disorder is real and not their fault
  • Learn as much about postpartum mood and anxiety disorders as you can
  • Do not criticize or judge
  • Listen and accept their feelings
  • Provide support so they can attend appointments or support groups. Organize childcare and attend with them if asked.
  • Take on more responsibilities such as baby care so they can have more time for themselves.
  • Tell them you love them often
  • Try to be patient. It may take several months but with help they will get better
  • Watch for signs of emergency; if you have worries that your partner could harm the baby or themselves, get help immediately. Call a friend, a distress line, doctor, or go to the emergency department of your local hospital and let them know why you are there

  • Understand that postpartum mood and anxiety disorder is real and it is not their fault
  • Offer to help. Consider cooking a meal for the family, doing the laundry or providing childcare for the new baby and/or older child so they can take a break
  • Listen to them as they express their feelings
  • Do not criticize or judge
  • Call them on the phone and ask how they are doing. It’s always helpful to know someone cares
  • Have patience. It may take several months but with help they will get better

Review:
Mental Health (PDF 117KB)

Visit:
Postpartum Support International

Help and Support:

Perinatal Mental Health - Help and Support

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