Around 80% of new mothers will experience a change in their mental health in the first year after giving birth. Some experience a change while they are pregnant. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD) include depression, anxiety or OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD and psychosis.
PMADs do not discriminate: they affect people of every race, every level of income, every age, and even all genders. It is quite common, and it is important to know that it is not your fault, you are not alone and there is help. With good, informed care, you can fully recover.
The following is information and resources on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
General Information
Pregnancy and Postpartum Health Alliance of Texas
Postpartum Depression– Office on Women’s Health
Postpartum Depression– March of Dimes
Suicide Prevention Hotline: Dial 988 or go to 988lifeline.org
Helplines and Resources
InfantRisk Center– Information on the safety of over-the-counter and prescribed medication for infants and pregnant/lactating women
Postpartum Mood Disorders– La Leche League International
Postpartum Support International– Texas Resource Guide – groups, telephone support, reliable services available for no charge
Pregnancy and Postpartum Health Alliance of Texas (PPHA)– A volunteer-run organization dedicated to supporting families in the Central Texas area affected by perinatal mood disorders. They provide three primary functions:
- They are a resource for families in need by providing public access to a network of providers specializing in perinatal mood disorders.
- The hold trainings and participate in educational seminars for health professionals.
- They offer three core programs for underserved mothers:
- A postpartum doula program
- A therapy voucher program
- A psychiatric voucher program