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Don’t Fool Around When You Have Postpartum Depression

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August 1, 2006

About This Editor: A parent and librarian just trying to share some information with the world. Currently a Stay-At-Home Mom of 5, and who jokingly refers to herself as "supermom", she enjoys writing children's books, erotica and anything else that interests her. If you would like to see Ms. Lanham write on a topic that interests you, email her at rlanham_arscompendium@yahoo.com.

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Postpartum depression, or PPD, is not a disorder you want to ignore or fool around with. There are rare cases when a woman with PPD can progress and develop what is called postpartum psychosis. When psychotic symptoms become part of the disorder, there is a chance that the mother can endanger not only herself, but her newborn child!

It is not unusual for new mothers with PPD to have quick, vivid and frightening thoughts of suicide, death and even harming their new child. In those with less severe cases, these thoughts will never be acted upon. However, when postpartum psychosis is experienced, those thoughts can turn into urges that cannot be ignored. Sometimes this can lead to the new mother hurting herself or her baby.

If you (or someone you know) are experiencing such thoughts and feel you cannot keep from hurting yourself, your newborn or another person, call 911! Seek help from your health care provider right away for treatment! Go to the nearest emergency room and get assistance for you and your child!

Other numbers you can call in the event of an emergency are: United States National Suicide Hotline

1-800-SUICIDE

United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK

Don’t wait to call because you think it is too soon. Symptoms of postpartum psychosis can be noticed quite soon after birth. In some cases, symptoms were noted only 2 to 3 days postpartum!

Those with a family or personal history of manic-depressive disorder are at a greater risk for this rare, extreme form of PPD, so be aware and be prepared. Never take PPD lightly. Seek medical attention when you suspect you many have this disorder.

Early treatment can be the key to avoiding severe and scary forms of postpartum depression.