I want to start by saying I am not a medical professional. This is simply advice from a first time mother.
Becoming a mom was the most amazing, thrilling, life changing experience. Ava has brought us such joy. I look at her daily and think how incredibly happy she makes me. Was I completely overwhelmed after having her? Yes. Did I desperately want to sleep and just have one more day of my old life back? Yes. I’d imagine a lot of moms have felt that way at least for a minute or two. I read about postpartum prior to having Ava so I was aware of the symptoms and would check in with myself every few days on how I was feeling. Adjusting to motherhood is one of the biggest challenges a woman will face in her life and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. I did not suffer from postpartum but I know a few of my friends that did. Postpartum depression is a treatable medical illness that affects about 15-20% of women after giving birth. It can develop anywhere from a few weeks to a year after delivery, but it’s most common in the first three months postpartum. Postpartum depression can be hard to spot, because the moodiness and other symptoms are similar to the “baby blues” — a short-lived state that affects up to 70% of new mothers. Only 15% of all women with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, ever receive professional treatment. Many times, people think it is something that will pass or will be able to be cured with a hot bath or a night out.
A friend of mine tragically lost her sister in law who began to suffer from postpartum depression shortly after giving birth. This beautiful woman in the picture above is Alexis. The Alexis Joy Foundation was created to be a shining light for women and families suffering from and affected by perinatal mood and anxiety disorders spanning, but not limited to, infertility, postpartum depression, and infant and child loss. By educating the community with their story, they strive to raise awareness and develop programs needed for these women and families.
I am writing this to encourage you to say something if you aren’t feeling like yourself. If that person does not seem to offer help, tell someone else. If you know of someone you suspect may be suffering, reach out. This is a treatable condition and can be treated many ways: though therapy, medication, support groups, or even diet and exercise. The Alexis Joy Foundation is based in Pittsburgh but reaches nationally.
Click here to learn more about The Alexis Joy Foundation
If you feel you are in a crisis, call 1-800-784-2433.
Philadelphia Based Organizations:
The Center For Postpartum Depression
148 West Highland Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
215.247.2114
Women’s Emotional Wellness Center at Ellis Preserve in Newtown Square
Main Line Health Center
3855 West Chester Pike
Newtown Square, PA 19073
1.888.227.3898
