Postpartum Mental Health
Having a baby can trigger a wide range of emotions. You may feel joyful one moment then anxious the next. This is usually normal; however, some experience long-lasting, severe symptoms. Nobody is at fault for any of it, but it is important to recognize the signs and get help.
Explore this page to learn more about postpartum mental wellness and how to recognize red flags.
The "Baby Blues"
You may have complicated feelings about being a new parent. You may feel deep love for your baby, yet underslept and emotional. That does not make you a bad parent, it makes you human. ​
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After giving birth, many people experience a bout of sadness. This is sometimes called the baby, or postpartum, blues. This may look different in different people, but you may:
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Cry a lot
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Feel cranky or moody
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Have a hard time concentrating or making decisions
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Feel overwhelmed
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Have difficulty sleeping, despite being exhausted
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The baby blues are temporary, so practice kindness and patience toward yourself as you adjust to a major life change and the dramatic changes in hormones that come with giving birth. Finding time to practice self-care is also an important way to help ease the symptoms.
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The Baby Blues can last up to two weeks and is usually not a cause for concern. If your symptoms last longer than that, or they become more severe, it is time to call your doctor.
Postpartum Depression and Warning Signs
For a small portion of the population, having a baby may bring something unexpected: depression. Always remember that anything you are feeling is not your fault, but it is important to get help in order to make sure that yourself, your baby, and all those around you are safe and healthy. ​
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To learn more about postpartum depression, and how it is screened, explore the section below.
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If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself or anyone else, call the Here2Help Crisis Line (410-433-5175) right away.
There is absolutely no shame in having trouble adjusting to parenting or experiencing postpartum depression. There are many people in Baltimore City who want you to ask for help and are ready to provide you support. Here are some great resources for getting mental health support.
Postpartum Mental Wellness Resources
Medicaid Covered and Low-Cost Resources
There are several resources throughout Baltimore City where you can get specialized support for postpartum depression.​
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To learn more, speak to your provider.
