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Postpartum Depression

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum Depression is a mood disorder that can occur during pregnancy or anytime within the first year after giving birth. It affects emotional, physical, and mental well-being — and it is not a sign of being a “bad parent,” weak, or ungrateful for your baby. PPD is a real medical condition caused by a combination of hormonal, biological, and psychological factors.


Biologically, after childbirth, hormone levels (especially estrogen and progesterone) drop rapidly. Sleep deprivation, physical recovery, thyroid changes, and breastfeeding demands can intensify emotional symptoms. Some people are more vulnerable due to genetics, trauma, or a history of depression or anxiety.

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Psychologically, new parents may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, guilty, anxious, or fearful that something is wrong with them. Many struggle silently because they are afraid of being judged — but postpartum depression is common and highly treatable.


Anyone can develop PPD, regardless of pregnancy outcome, delivery type, feeding method, or life circumstances. You are not alone.

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What Are the Symptoms?

Postpartum depression can appear days, weeks, or months after birth. Symptoms may include:

  • Persistent sadness, emptiness, or tearfulness

  • Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope

  • Anxiety or panic attacks

  • Irritability or anger

  • Difficulty bonding with the baby

  • Feeling disconnected from loved ones

  • Loss of interest in activities

  • Changes in sleep or appetite

  • Extreme guilt or feeling like a “bad parent”

  • Thoughts of self-harm or fear of harming the baby

PPD is different from normal “baby blues.” Symptoms of PPD are stronger, last longer, and interfere with daily life.
If you ever feel unsafe or scared of your thoughts, reach out immediately. These thoughts are symptoms — not reflections of who you are.

How Is Postpartum Depression Treated?

Postpartum depression is highly treatable, and the most effective care is personalized to each individual. Treatment may include:

Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Supportive therapy and emotional processing

  • Trauma-informed therapy (for birth trauma, infertility, or loss)

  • Coping skills for anxiety, guilt, and self-criticism​

Therapy can help parents manage overwhelming feelings, build support systems, and reconnect with themselves and their baby.​

Medication

Medication can be extremely helpful for mood, sleep, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts. Most antidepressants are safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding, and we always discuss risks, benefits, and comfort level before starting anything.

Common options include:

  • SSRIs – Sertraline, escitalopram, fluoxetine.

  • SNRIs – Venlafaxine, duloxetine.

  • Atypical antidepressants – Mirtazapine, bupropion.

  • Brexanolone (Zulresso) – IV treatment for severe PPD; fast-acting.

  • Zuranolone (Zurzuvae) – 14-day oral treatment for PPD; quick improvement.

Lifestyle & Support

  • Sleep strategies (and help separating sleep from guilt)

  • Support with breastfeeding or formula feeding without judgment

  • Stress management and grounding strategies

  • Partner, family, or friend support if helpful

  • Reducing isolation, shame, and pressure to be “perfect”

There is no “right” way to be a parent — just the way that keeps you and your baby safe and supported

Advanced Treatment Options

For individuals with severe or treatment-resistant symptoms:

  • Ketamine or Esketamine (Spravato)

  • Brexanolone (Zulresso) infusion

  • Zuranolone oral therapy

  • Medication + therapy combinations

  • Collaboration with OB-GYNs, pediatricians, and lactation support​

No two parents are the same, and no two treatment plans should be either.

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How We Can Help at Better Balance Mental Health

Postpartum depression can feel heavy, frightening, or isolating — especially when everyone expects you to be happy. We know how hard it is to speak up when you’re struggling, and we treat every patient with compassion, privacy, and zero judgment.


We take time to understand your symptoms, your birth experience, your support system, and how you’re truly feeling — not just how you think you should feel. We talk about options gently and make decisions together. We never push medication, but we offer it when it can help. Some people improve with therapy alone, others with a combination of therapy and medication, and some with newer treatments.


You deserve to feel supported, respected, and heard. You also deserve rest, healing, connection, and joy. We understand that postpartum depression is very real and help is available.
You do not have to do this alone. We’re here to walk with you, one step at a time.

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