Postpartum Depression Services in Chicago, IL: Local Support and Therapy Options
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common and treatable mood disorder that can affect people in the weeks and months after giving birth. In Chicago and surrounding Chicagoland, understanding the signs, seeking timely screening, and accessing local treatment options can help new mothers, partners, and families navigate this challenging period with evidence-based care. This article provides medically accurate information about symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and a wide range of local resources—from therapy and medication to in-person and telehealth support—so readers can find appropriate help close to home.
Understanding Postpartum Depression
PPD can manifest in various ways, including feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, and exhaustion. It's essential for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek help, as they can significantly impact daily functioning and relationships.
Signs and Symptoms of PPD
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of inadequacy or guilt related to parenting
Getting Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with PPD, it’s important to reach out for support. Local resources in the Chicagoland area include:
- Therapists specializing in postpartum mental health
- Support groups for new mothers
- Telehealth services for convenient access to care
- Medication management by healthcare professionals
FAQs
Who is at risk for PPD?
PPD can affect anyone who has recently given birth, regardless of age, race, or socioeconomic status. Factors such as a history of depression, lack of support, and stressful life events can increase risk.
How is PPD diagnosed?
A healthcare provider typically diagnoses PPD through a combination of self-reported symptoms and clinical assessments. Screening tools like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale may be utilized.
What treatments are available for PPD?
Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication, and support groups. Telehealth options are also available for those who prefer remote consultations.
Where can I find support in the Chicago area?
Numerous clinics, hospitals, and community organizations in Chicago offer resources for PPD. It's advisable to contact local healthcare providers to find specific services available in your vicinity.
Conclusion
Postpartum depression is a serious but manageable condition. By recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate help, new mothers and their families can navigate this period with the support they need for recovery and well-being.
PPD can affect anyone after childbirth, regardless of age, race, or socioeconomic status. In urban areas like Chicago, access to diverse providers and specialized perinatal programs improves the likelihood of early identification and effective treatment. The goal is to reduce suffering, support breastfeeding and parenting, and promote recovery that enables mothers to engage with their babies and families healthily. This guide also highlights safety planning, crisis resources, and how partners and communities can contribute to a supportive recovery environment.
For those seeking care, timing matters. Screening during pregnancy and the postpartum period helps catch issues early before symptoms worsen. Numerous Chicago hospitals and clinics provide routine perinatal mental health screening, and many offer same- or next-day referrals to therapists, psychiatrists, and social workers. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out to a trusted clinician, nurse, or social worker is a strong first step toward recovery.
This article uses clear language and practical steps to help readers understand what postpartum depression is, how it is diagnosed, where to find local services, and what to expect from treatment in Chicago. It also emphasizes collaboration among obstetricians, mental health professionals, families, and community organizations to create a supportive network for new mothers.
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Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression presents with a range of emotional and physical symptoms that typically begin within the first year after delivery, though onset can occur later. The mood disturbance is more persistent and severe than the typical “baby blues” and often interferes with daily functioning and bonding with the baby. Early recognition improves outcomes through timely treatment.
Common symptoms include a persistent low mood, tearfulness, or feelings of hopelessness. Many individuals also report a loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy, including spending time with the baby. Sleep disturbances and changes in appetite or weight are frequent, as are fatigue and physical aches without a clear medical cause. An increase in irritability, anxiety, or restlessness can accompany these changes.
Cognitive symptoms may involve difficulty concentrating, dominating negative thoughts, or excessive self-blame. Some people experience intrusive worries about harming the baby or themselves. In severe cases, there can be agitation, agitation or slowed thinking, and, rarely, thoughts of suicide or attempts. Postpartum depression with psychotic features is rare but requires urgent medical attention.
- Symptoms can vary in intensity and may fluctuate daily.
- Mood symptoms are often accompanied by anxiety or panic symptoms in some individuals.
- Breastfeeding can be affected by mood changes, appetite, and fatigue, though many people continue breastfeeding safely with medical guidance.
- The presence of obsessive worries or compulsive behaviors related to the baby can occur with postpartum anxiety or OCD and may accompany PPD.
- It is important to distinguish PPD from postpartum psychosis, which presents with delusions, disorganized thinking, or severe agitation and requires emergency care.
- If you notice any thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby, seek urgent help immediately.
If you are unsure whether your symptoms fall into postpartum depression, a clinician can help differentiate PPD from other mood or anxiety disorders. Screening tools used in Chicago clinics often include standardized questionnaires to assess mood, anxiety, and functional impact. Early screening increases the likelihood of a successful recovery.
Common Risk Factors and Causes
Postpartum depression arises from a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors that can vary widely between individuals. Recognizing risk factors can help with early screening and proactive care after birth. A wide range of influences can converge to increase vulnerability to PPD in Chicago and beyond.
A prior history of depression or another mood disorder is one of the strongest predictors of postpartum depression. A personal or family history of bipolar disorder or postpartum mood episodes is also relevant. Hormonal fluctuations after delivery—rapid drops in estrogen and progesterone—are thought to play a role, though the exact mechanisms are complex and influenced by many factors.
Sleep deprivation and the heavy, ongoing demands of infant care are important contributors. Social determinants of health, including financial stress, housing instability, and limited access to reliable social support, can increase risk. Cultural factors, stigma around mental health, and barriers to care in some communities may delay screening and treatment.
Medical and obstetric complications during pregnancy or delivery—such as preterm birth, prolonged hospitalization, or a baby with health concerns—also elevate risk. A lack of partner support or strained relationships can compound stress and mood symptoms. Protective factors include a stable support network, access to health care, prior successful coping with stress, and engagement with mental health professionals when needed.
Understanding risk factors helps clinicians tailor screening and interventions, but it is important to remember that postpartum depression can affect anyone. Even individuals without identifiable risk factors may develop PPD, underscoring the value of routine postpartum screening as part of standard medical care in Chicago clinics and hospitals.
Diagnosing Postpartum Depression: What to Expect
Diagnosis begins with careful screening and a clinical interview to capture mood, functional status, and safety considerations. Because postpartum depression shares features with other mood and anxiety disorders, clinicians may use a combination of standardized tools and individualized assessment to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. A comprehensive approach improves treatment planning.
Screening tools commonly used include the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and targeted anxiety scales. These instruments help quantify symptom severity and track changes over time. A clinician may also review medical history, current medications, sleep patterns, and feeding routines to understand the full context.
A diagnostic interview explores mood symptoms, anxiety, sleep, energy levels, appetite, safety, and functioning at home and with the baby. The clinician will rule out medical conditions that can mimic or exacerbate mood symptoms, such as thyroid disorders, anemia, or vitamin deficiencies. In some cases, a referral for a medical workup is appropriate to exclude physical contributors.
A differential diagnosis is important because postpartum mood symptoms can co-occur with or mimic other conditions. Perinatal mood disorders, postpartum anxiety, OCD, and bipolar disorder require different treatment approaches. When needed, a psychiatrist or psychologist may provide a formal diagnosis and collaborate with obstetricians and pediatricians to coordinate care.
In Chicago, screening is integrated into routine obstetric and pediatric care at many hospitals and clinics. If screening indicates possible postpartum depression, a referral to mental health professionals—such as therapists, social workers, or psychiatrists—often follows promptly to begin evidence-based treatment.
Chicago Screening and Evaluation Resources
Chicago offers a broad spectrum of screening and evaluation resources for postpartum mood disorders. Hospitals, academic medical centers, community health clinics, and private practices collaborate to provide timely assessment and referral to appropriate care. Screening workflows commonly involve OB teams, pediatric partners, and behavioral health specialists.
Major Chicago hospitals frequently offer perinatal mental health services, including routine postnatal screening, urgent consultations, and mood-disorder clinics. These programs emphasize integrated care, coordinating obstetrics, pediatrics, and mental health to support both mother and baby. Providers may offer same-day or next-day intake to begin treatment planning.
Community-based clinics and social service agencies also play a critical role in screening, particularly for underserved populations. Access to culturally competent care, language-concordant clinicians, and transportation assistance can improve engagement in evaluation and treatment. Public health departments and maternal-child health programs commonly facilitate education and screening events.
Telehealth options and mobile health services are expanding access to screening across Chicagoland. Remote intake assessments can connect patients to therapists, psychiatrists, or crisis services, reducing barriers related to transportation or childcare. Local insurers and hospital systems often support these services with streamlined intake and coordinated referrals.
Screening and evaluation follow-up typically include a personalized treatment plan, with options ranging from psychotherapy to pharmacotherapy, and regular monitoring for effectiveness and safety. A robust evaluation also considers safety planning and community supports that can influence recovery trajectory.
Care teams in Chicago frequently coordinate with lactation consultants, social workers, and case managers to ensure a holistic approach. The goal is to provide rapid access to the most effective treatment plan, while respecting patient preferences and cultural considerations.
Treatment Options in Chicago: Therapy, Medication, and Support
Effective treatment for postpartum depression typically combines psychotherapy, medication when appropriate, and strong social support. Treatments are tailored to each person’s symptoms, medical history, breastfeeding status, and personal goals. In Chicago, a range of options is accessible through hospitals, community clinics, private practices, and telehealth services.
Psychotherapy is a central component of treatment and includes evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT). CBT helps address negative thought patterns and behaviors that sustain depressive symptoms, while IPT focuses on improving relationships and social functioning. Therapists trained in perinatal mental health can adapt these approaches to postpartum challenges.
Medication can be an important part of recovery, particularly for moderate to severe depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used and are generally compatible with breastfeeding, under physician supervision. In some cases, other antidepressants or mood stabilizers may be considered, especially if there is a history of bipolar disorder or psychosis.
Supportive care options, including peer support groups, social work services, and case management, complement formal therapy. Family involvement and partner participation can significantly boost adherence to treatment plans and improve outcomes for both mother and baby. Hospital-based lactation support and parenting education often pair with mood disorder treatment.
In Chicago, treatment access can be facilitated by hospital programs, community clinics, and telehealth platforms. Many providers emphasize collaborative care—OBs, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers working together with the patient and family. Timely initiation and ongoing adjustment of treatment are key to achieving recovery and returning to full function.
When choosing a treatment plan, clinicians discuss safety, especially if there is any risk of harm to self or baby. Shared decision-making ensures that concerns about breastfeeding, work, and family responsibilities are addressed. The overall aim is a safe and sustainable path to recovery that respects the values and priorities of the patient.
Finding Local Providers in Chicago: Therapists, Psychiatrists, and Clinics
Locating the right mental health professional for postpartum mood disorders involves a combination of referrals, professional directories, and direct outreach to clinics. In Chicago, many providers specialize in perinatal mental health, offering therapy, medication management, and crisis intervention. Start with trusted sources such as obstetricians, pediatricians, or hospital social workers who can provide targeted recommendations.
Look for board-certified professionals with experience in postpartum depression, perinatal mood disorders, or perinatal psychiatry. Therapists may hold credentials such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), or psychologists with specialization in perinatal health. Psychiatrists who focus on mood disorders and pregnancy-related medication management are essential partners when pharmacotherapy is needed.
Consider practical factors when choosing a provider. Location, availability, language preferences, and insurance acceptance all influence access. In Chicago, many clinics offer same- or next-day intake, telehealth options, and coordinated care with obstetric and pediatric teams. Ask about experience with breastfeeding, infant safety, and multicultural considerations.
Telehealth has expanded access to postpartum mental health care across Chicagoland. If in-person appointments are challenging due to work, childcare, or transportation, telehealth visits with therapists or psychiatrists can provide convenient and effective treatment. Most major providers list telehealth options on their websites and during intake.
Before your first visit, gather key information: a brief symptom history, past mental health diagnoses, current medications, and any substance use. A clinician will review medical history, assess safety, and collaborate with you to determine the initial treatment plan. Building a cooperative relationship with a provider increases the likelihood of successful treatment and recovery.
Hospital and Perinatal Programs in Chicago
Chicago hosts several hospitals with dedicated perinatal psychiatry and mood-disorder programs. These programs provide integrated care for mothers and families, including screening, evaluation, psychotherapy, medication management, and crisis services. They often collaborate with obstetrics, pediatrics, lactation services, and social work to support the whole family.
Northwestern Medicine, the University of Chicago Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, and other large academic and affiliated hospitals operate perinatal mental health programs. These programs frequently offer outpatient clinics, inpatient units for severe mood disorders, and specialized postpartum mood disorder clinics that provide comprehensive care.
Many Chicago hospitals also provide lactation consulting and bonding-focused services as part of postpartum care. Inpatient and day-hospital options may be available for severe postpartum depression or postpartum psychosis, ensuring rapid stabilization and a safe transition back to home. Multidisciplinary teams coordinate care across medical and mental health needs.
If you’re seeking care, start with your obstetrician or pediatrician for referrals to hospital-based perinatal programs. Social workers within hospitals can also help arrange outpatient treatment, insurance verification, and transportation assistance. These hospital programs often serve as trusted entry points for ongoing care after delivery.
Local Support Groups and Peer Networks in Chicago
Peer support plays a crucial role in recovery by reducing isolation, normalizing experiences, and offering practical coping strategies. In Chicago, there are several in-person and online groups for mothers experiencing postpartum mood disorders, including postnatal depression and anxiety. These groups provide validation and nonjudgmental listening.
Hospital-affiliated support groups are common in Chicago and can be an accessible starting point. Groups led by social workers, nurses, or mental health professionals often welcome partners and family members, emphasizing education about symptoms, treatment options, safety planning, and self-care strategies. Some groups meet on a regular schedule, including evenings and weekends.
Wide-community organizations and maternal health nonprofits in Chicago may host meetings, workshops, and online forums. Local chapters of national organizations sometimes offer webinars, resource libraries, and referral services to clinicians experienced in perinatal mental health. Participation can widen support networks and decrease stigma.
Local parenting and lactation groups frequently intersect with postpartum mental health discussions. Hospitals, community centers, libraries, and faith-based organizations may host informal meetups where new mothers can share experiences and strategies. Always verify the credentials and focus of any group to ensure it aligns with evidence-based care.
To access local support groups, start with your OB or midwife, ask hospital social workers for group referrals, or search through reputable perinatal mental health organizations. If you cannot attend in person, many groups offer virtual participation, which can be particularly helpful for those with transportation or childcare barriers.
Telehealth and In-Home Care: Accessing Services Across Chicagoland
Telehealth has become a central way to access postpartum mental health care in Chicago. Secure video visits with therapists or psychiatrists offer flexibility for new mothers who may have limited time or childcare. Telehealth can also help patients who live in suburbs or outlying areas where access to specialized perinatal care is more limited.
In-home care can include home visits by nurses, social workers, or maternal health professionals who assess mood, safety, and support needs. In some cases, postpartum doulas or peer supporters provide non-clinical assistance to help with routines, sleep, and bonding, complementing clinical treatment. Always ensure clinical care remains coordinated with your medical team.
When considering telehealth or in-home care, verify that the provider is licensed to practice in Illinois and accepts your insurance. Ask about privacy, documentation, and how medications will be managed remotely. Many Chicago providers offer bilingual services or access to interpreters, which can improve engagement and outcomes.
Technology can help with mood tracking and appointment reminders. Some clinics offer patient portals to share symptom checklists and lab results, receive secure messages, and coordinate care with obstetricians and pediatricians. With ongoing communication, care teams can monitor progress and adjust treatment plans promptly.
To maximize the benefits of telehealth and in-home care, prepare a quiet, private space for sessions, test equipment in advance, and establish a regular schedule. If you experience connectivity issues, contact the clinic early to explore alternatives, such as audio-only visits or in-person appointments when feasible.
Insurance, Costs, and Financial Help in Chicago
Understanding insurance coverage for postpartum depression treatment is essential to minimize financial barriers. In the United States, many plans provide coverage for mental health services under the Behavioral Health Parity laws, though out-of-pocket costs vary. Clarifying benefits with your insurer can prevent surprises and delays in care.
Medicaid and state-funded programs in Illinois also support perinatal mental health services for eligible individuals. Eligibility and coverage details depend on income, household size, and other factors. Social workers at hospitals or community clinics can help determine options and assist with enrollment steps.
Hospital financial counselors can explain options for sliding-scale fees, charity care, or program-specific discounts. Community mental health centers often offer reduced-fee services based on income. Telehealth visits may have different cost structures than in-person appointments; check with providers about pricing and insurance compatibility.
Some clinics provide managed care arrangements, bundled services, or reduced rates for bundled psychotherapy and psychiatry visits. If you face financial barriers, ask about payment plans, sliding scales, or temporary waivers while you pursue treatment. Employer-related benefits, such as paid family leave, may also impact your ability to access care.
Advocates and social workers can assist with navigating insurance challenges, securing authorizations for mental health care, and connecting you with community resources. By planning ahead and communicating openly with providers and insurers, families can access necessary postpartum mental health services in Chicago without undue stress.
Prevention and Early Intervention for New Mothers
Prevention and early intervention focus on screening, education, and building resilient support systems for new mothers. Early recognition of mood changes and timely engagement with mental health services can reduce the duration and severity of postpartum depression. Chicago providers emphasize proactive planning as part of standard postpartum care.
Screening during pregnancy and the postpartum period is a key preventive strategy. Repeated mood assessments using tools like EPDS or PHQ-9 help identify evolving symptoms before they impair function or bonding. Clinicians often integrate screening into routine prenatal visits and postpartum checkups.
Self-care strategies—adequate sleep when possible, nutrition, light physical activity, and reasonable expectations—support mood stabilization. Strengthening social support networks, including partners, family, and friends, reduces isolation and provides practical help with infant care. These strategies complement clinical treatment and improve outcomes.
Seeking timely help at the first signs of mood changes is crucial. Early intervention can prevent a downward spiral, minimize impairment, and shorten recovery time. Chicago-based perinatal teams commonly coordinate with lactation consultants, social workers, and community programs to implement prevention initiatives.
Education for families about postpartum mood disorders helps reduce stigma and promotes supportive environments. Open conversations about emotions, stress, and parenting challenges can facilitate early help-seeking. Community resources, including parenting classes and maternal mental health workshops, contribute to prevention efforts.
Involving Partners, Families, and Community Support
Supportive partners and families play a central role in recovery from postpartum depression. Involving loved ones in education about symptoms, treatment options, and safety planning strengthens the care network. Chicago clinicians encourage collaborative care that recognizes the family unit as a partner in healing.
Practical support from partners—sharing nighttime duties, helping with infant care, and assisting with appointments—can reduce stress and improve adherence to treatment plans. Open communication about mood changes and concerns helps destigmatize mental health care and promotes timely help-seeking.
Families can participate in therapy sessions when appropriate, or attend psychoeducation groups to learn how to support a loved one experiencing PPD. Community support networks, including peer groups and faith-based organizations, can provide empathetic listening and social connections that bolster recovery.
Workplaces and schools should be engaged as appropriate to support new mothers. Flexible scheduling, understanding accommodations, and access to employee assistance programs can ease stress and improve access to care. Community programs can facilitate transportation and childcare, further reducing barriers to treatment.
Culturally sensitive care is important in Chicago’s diverse communities. Providers may incorporate language-specific resources, cultural norms, and family decision-making styles into treatment planning. Engaging community leaders and trusted networks can enhance acceptance and utilization of mental health services.
Safety Planning, Crisis Resources, and When to Seek Help
Safety is the top priority when mood symptoms include thoughts of harming oneself or the baby. Creating a concrete safety plan with your care team can reduce risk and provide a clear course of action during difficult moments. A timely plan supports both immediate safety and sustained recovery.
Key elements of a safety plan include identifying warning signs, listing coping strategies that work, and identifying a trusted person to contact during a crisis. Removing means and ensuring access to emergency services are essential components. Individuals should know how to reach their clinician after hours and where to go for urgent care.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. In Chicago, crisis hotlines and local emergency services can provide rapid assistance. National resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are available nationwide and connect callers to trained counselors.
Crisis resources in Chicagoland include hospital emergency departments with perinatal crisis services, outpatient crisis lines, and mobile crisis teams. It is important to have a plan that encompasses both the immediate crisis and a pathway to ongoing treatment after stabilization.
Post-crisis care should include a re-evaluation of the treatment plan, safety assurances, and support for returning home with the baby. A phased return to daily activities and parenting responsibilities, under medical guidance, supports sustained recovery and reduces recurrence risk.
Related Conditions: Postpartum Anxiety, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder
Postpartum mood disorders often present with overlapping symptoms, making differential diagnosis important for choosing the right treatment. Postpartum anxiety can occur with or without depressive symptoms and may include excessive worry, racing thoughts, and physical symptoms such as restlessness or sleep disturbance. Recognizing the coexistence of anxiety with depression informs treatment planning.
Postpartum OCD involves intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors centered on the baby’s safety or cleanliness. These symptoms can be mistaken for typical parental worries but are persistent and distressing, requiring specialized cognitive-behavioral approaches. The presence of OCD can influence how therapy is structured and which medications are considered.
Bipolar disorder with postpartum onset is a distinct condition that may involve manic or hypomanic episodes in addition to depressive symptoms. Treatment often requires mood-stabilizing medications and careful monitoring around breastfeeding. Early identification is critical to prevent mood swings that can endanger both mother and baby.
Screening for multiple conditions during the postpartum period is standard in many Chicago clinics. Clinicians look for symptoms of anxiety, obsessive thoughts, mania, and mixed features to tailor treatment appropriately. Accurate diagnosis supports safer medication choices and more effective psychotherapy.
There is an increased risk of sleep disruption and stress when multiple conditions are present, which makes integrated care even more important. Coordinated teams—consisting of obstetricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers—help manage comorbidity and create a cohesive care plan.
What to Expect from Treatment and Recovery Timeline in Chicago
Recovery from postpartum depression varies by individual but follows general patterns. Many patients begin to notice improvement within a few weeks of initiating psychotherapy, medication, or combination therapy. A realistic plan helps patients stay motivated through the process and track progress with their care team.
Psychotherapy typically requires several weeks to months to produce meaningful changes in mood, thinking patterns, and functioning. CBT or IPT sessions are commonly scheduled weekly or biweekly, with ongoing assessment of symptom severity and functional gains. Some people experience rapid improvement, while others progress more gradually.
Medication response can vary; some individuals report mood stabilization within 1–4 weeks of starting an antidepressant, while others may require longer treatment or dose adjustments. For breastfeeding patients, clinicians select medications with favorable safety profiles and monitor infant well-being through pediatric follow-up.
Ongoing follow-up is essential to sustain recovery. Regular appointments assess mood, sleep, stress, and social supports. If symptoms persist or recur, clinicians may adjust therapy modalities, add or change medications, or explore alternative treatments like sleep optimization or light therapy.
Relapse prevention focuses on maintaining healthy routines, stress management, and adherence to treatment. After acute symptoms improve, many patients transition to maintenance therapy, sometimes at a reduced intensity, to minimize the risk of recurrence. Community supports, family involvement, and continued access to care support lasting recovery.
FAQ
- What is postpartum depression, and how is it different from the “baby blues”? Postpartum depression is a mood disorder with persistent depressive symptoms after childbirth that impairs functioning, whereas the baby blues are milder, short-lived mood changes that typically resolve within two weeks. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen, seek medical evaluation.
- Who should be screened for postpartum depression in Chicago? All individuals in the postpartum period should be screened, typically during postpartum visits and pediatrician checkups for the infant. Screening helps identify those who need further assessment and treatment.
- What treatments are most effective for postpartum depression? Evidence-based treatments include psychotherapy (CBT, IPT) and, when appropriate, antidepressant medications. A combination of therapy and medication often yields the best outcomes, especially for moderate to severe cases.
- Can I breastfeed while taking antidepressants? Many antidepressants are compatible with breastfeeding, but decisions should be made with your clinician. They will consider the safety profile for the infant and monitor both mother and baby.
- What should I do if I have thoughts of harming myself or the baby? Seek immediate help by calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency department. You can also contact local crisis lines or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for 24/7 support.
More Information
- Mayo Clinic: Postpartum Depression overview and treatment options. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/
- MedlinePlus: Postpartum depression information and resources. https://medlineplus.gov/postpartumdepression.html
- CDC: Maternal mental health and postpartum mood disorders. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternalinfanthealth/
- WebMD: Postpartum depression causes, symptoms, and treatment. https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/postpartum-depression
- Healthline: Postpartum depression symptoms and treatment options. https://www.healthline.com/health/postpartum-depression
- Chicago provider directories and patient resources: consult hospital sites like Northwestern Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, Rush University Medical Center for perinatal mental health clinics and referral contacts.
If you found this article helpful, please share it with others who may benefit. Talk to your healthcare provider about postpartum mood concerns, and explore related content from Weence.com to learn more about perinatal mental health resources in your area.
