Signs of Postpartum Depression

About one in nine new mothers in the US have symptoms of postpartum depression. Here's when to call the doctor if you think you're having signs of it. You feel sadness or emptiness that doesn't lift after a couple of weeks.

You start having symptoms of depression within a year of giving birth and the signs linger more than two weeks or get worse. You struggle to take care of your responsibilities at work or home. You feel like you can't feed, bathe, or do other basic things for yourself or your baby. You've considered hurting yourself or your child.

If you have these thoughts, you need to tell someone right away. Talk to your partner or a family member. Or call 911. Get the treatment you need and the help you deserve so you can start feeling like yourself again. The FDA recently approved a medication that may help.