During pregnancy, or the first year of your baby's life, you may experience changes in your mood.
What is Perinatal Mood Disorder?
As many as one in five women will develop symptoms of depression and/or anxiety during this time, which leave them feeling unable to cope.
- Symptoms can vary greatly and range from mild to severe.
- New dads may have some of these feelings too and require support.
- Family members may be the first to notice symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
If you are pregnant or are a new parent and have concerns about any of the following, you may have a perinatal mood disorder.
Do you often feel:
- very tired
- sad
- anxious/worried
- scared
- guilty
- angry
- like a failure
- like you are going crazy
Are you having trouble:
- sleeping/eating
- concentrating
- enjoying time with your baby
- relaxing with family or friends
- coping with day to day tasks
- dealing with scary thoughts/dreams
You are not alone. It is not your fault. Help is available. It does get better.
| Getting help |
|
If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, get help right away.
If your feelings last more than two weeks, talk to your doctor or health care provider.Where to find help - Perinatal Mood Disorder Pathway
|
| Mother support group |
|
The Durham Region Health Department hosts a weekly support group where mothers can support and learn from each other. For more information or to speak to a public health nurse, call Durham Health Connection Line:
|
Contact Us
