Moms Supporting Moms

Moms Supporting Moms 919-454-6946

Hope --- Encouragement --- Information

Symptoms of Postpartum Mood Disorders

Symptoms to watch for:

•        Feeling hopeless or helpless
•        Sleep problems (cannot sleep or sleeping too much)
•        Extreme irritability
•        No appetite or eating too much
•        Excessive worry
•        Anxiety
•        Uncomfortable or intrusive thoughts
•        Unable to concentrate on or cope with daily routines
•        Lack of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
•        Extreme fatigue
•        Restlessness and/or agitation
•        Panic attacks
•        Irrational fear of certain objects that may harm the baby, such as knives, germs, or water
•        Lack of interest in the baby or avoidance of caring for the infant
•        Feeling disconnected emotionally from the baby or family

Postpartum Mood Disorders are highly treatable and often resolve quickly once treatment is
undertaken. Please tell your doctor if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, and
contact Moms Supporting Moms for peer and social support.

*Extreme symptoms that require immediate medical attention include hallucinations, thoughts
of suicide, or delusional thoughts that may include a need to hurt the baby. Called Postpartum
Psychosis, this is an extremely rare event that occurs in less than 1% of new mothers. It is not
to be confused with a Postpartum Mood Disorder. Often, it is a spouse, family member, or
caregiver that notices these changes in the mother. Call 911 or take the mother to the
emergency room immediately for help.

A Project of the Center for Perinatal Emotional Wellness, Inc.