Postpartum Depression: Treatment, Symptoms & Online Care

At Talkiatry, we know that navigating mental health can feel overwhelming. Our mission is to make it easier—starting with information you can trust. As a national mental health practice with over 600 psychiatrists and other providers, we combine clinical excellence with real-world understanding to deliver incredible care and reliable information. This article has been medically reviewed by the same doctors who treat our patients every day, ensuring it meets the highest standards. Whether you’re seeking care now or simply looking to learn more, we’re here to help.

Postpartum depression is more common than many people realize, affecting an estimated 1 in 8 women in the year after childbirth. It can make everyday tasks feel impossible and weigh down this time in your life with feelings of guilt, anxiety, or hopelessness. 

If you’re struggling, you’re not alone, and there’s no shame in asking for help. With the right treatment, a full recovery is possible. Reaching out to a mental health provider is the first step. 

What is postpartum depression and what should I know about it? 

The journey into parenthood is a time of immense change, with shifts in hormones, responsibilities, and identities. It’s normal to feel many different emotions during this time. But for some new and expectant parents, these emotional and mental health challenges are deeper and require professional support. 

Postpartum depression (PPD)—sometimes referred to as “postnatal depression”—is a mood disorder that affects 1 in 8 women within a year of childbirth. Unlike the shorter-lasting “baby blues”—feelings of sadness, anxiety, and overwhelm that often appear right after giving birth—postpartum depression involves more intense and persistent changes in mood that often interfere with day-to-day life.

The good news is that postpartum depression is highly treatable. With the right combination of therapy, medication, and support, most people recover and feel like themselves again. If you’re experiencing challenges with mental health after childbirth, connecting with a qualified psychiatric provider can help you find relief during this important and vulnerable time. 

Symptoms of postpartum depression 

In the days after childbirth, many new parents experience what’s commonly known as the baby blues. This can include mood swings, irritability, crying spells, and feeling overwhelmed. These feelings are very common and typically go away on their own within one to two weeks. 

Postpartum depression, however, lasts longer and can interfere with daily life. Symptoms often begin within the first few weeks after delivery, but they can also emerge anytime within the first year. Each person’s experience is unique, and postpartum depression symptoms can range in type and severity. Common signs of PPD may include: 

• Severe mood swings
• Feelings of sadness, depression, irritability, or anger
• Frequent crying
• Fatigue or low energy
• Changes in appetite
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Difficulty bonding with your baby
• Decreased interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Social withdrawal or isolation 

If you’re experiencing any of these possible postpartum depression symptoms, know that you're not alone and support is available. It’s important to talk with a healthcare provider if: 

• Baby blues symptoms don’t resolve after two weeks or are very intense
• You have symptoms of depression at any point within a year of childbirth that last for more than two weeks
• You are struggling to care for yourself or your baby or to get things done at home 

Your doctor, nurse, midwife, or pediatrician can offer support and refer you to a qualified mental health professional. Reaching out is an important first step toward feeling better. 

What is postpartum psychosis? 

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious mental health condition that can develop shortly after childbirth. It is distinct from postpartum depression and involves more severe symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, severe confusion, hyperactivity, or manic behavior. These symptoms typically appear suddenly, often within the first days or weeks postpartum. 

While postpartum psychosis is treatable, receiving prompt care is critical. Treatment usually involves hospitalization to ensure the safety of both parent and baby, along with a combination of medications like antipsychotics or mood stabilizers and therapy.

What causes postpartum depression? 

Postpartum depression is caused by a combination of genetics, hormonal changes, life circumstances, and experiences. The emotional and psychological changes associated with having a baby and becoming a parent can also be a factor. 

Some people may be more likely to experience postpartum depression than others. There are several known risk factors: 

• A personal or family history of depression or other mental health conditions 

• A personal or family history of trauma 

• Pregnancy complications or a difficult or traumatic birthing experience 

• Lack of social support 

Many other factors can affect mood throughout the perinatal journey, including: 

• Unemployment or financial stress 

• Illness and underlying medical conditions 

• Relationship difficulties with a partner 

• Childcare stress 

• Ambivalent feelings about parenthood 

How a psychiatrist can help 

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions like postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety. They are trained to recognize signs of postpartum depression, even when it’s difficult to talk about what you’re experiencing. They can give you a diagnosis and work with you to find a treatment plan that fits your needs, whether that includes medication, therapy referrals, or both. 

Postpartum depression diagnosis 

Postpartum depression is diagnosed by a qualified mental health care provider, like a psychiatrist. Other healthcare providers, like OB-GYNs, primary care doctors, pediatricians, midwives, and nurses, can help by identifying early symptoms, conducting screenings, and referring you to a mental health specialist for a full evaluation and diagnosis. 

During a psychiatric evaluation, your provider will ask about how you’ve been feeling emotionally, mentally, and physically, including changes in your mood, sleep, or appetite, and how you’re adjusting to your new role as a parent. As part of this evaluation, you may be asked to complete a short screening questionnaire. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), which helps identify symptoms of depression and anxiety during the postpartum period, is a common tool in the diagnosis process. 

While no lab test can diagnose postpartum depression, your provider may order basic bloodwork to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. 

Psychiatry vs therapy 

Psychiatry and therapy can both play important roles in treating postpartum depression. A psychiatrist can make a diagnosis and prescribe medication, if it's a part of treatment. A therapist supports your emotional recovery by helping you understand your experiences and build coping skills. 

You don’t have to choose between the two. For many people, a combination of psychiatry and therapy for postpartum depression provides more comprehensive relief and helps them feel like themselves again.

Postpartum depression treatment options 

With effective treatment and the right support, most people can fully recover from postpartum depression. This often includes a combination of medication and therapy. Your psychiatrist will help you navigate your options and create a plan that works for you. Practicing good self-care, staying connected to others, and leaning on your social network can also play an important role in recovery.

Medication management 

The most common medications for postpartum depression are antidepressants, including: 

• Cymbalta
• Prozac
• Wellbutrin
• Zoloft  

There are also two FDA-approved medications specifically for postpartum depression: Zurzuvae and Brexanolone. Zurzuvae is the first oral medication approved for PPD. Brexanolone is given through an IV infusion in a hospital setting. 

Many of these medications are safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding. Your psychiatrist can help you evaluate the risks and benefits of various treatment options so that you can make the best plan for your needs. 

Therapy for postpartum depression 

Therapy can be a powerful part of postpartum depression treatment, helping you work through your feelings and build coping skills. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)—an evidence-based approach that’s often used for anxiety and depression—is a very effective therapy for postpartum depression. It helps you identify and change patterns of thought and behavior that aren’t supporting your mental health. 

Lifestyle changes 

Taking good care of yourself can make a big difference in your day-to-day experiences as you navigate an emotional challenge like postpartum depression. Prioritizing rest, eating nourishing foods, and staying active can all help you feel more balanced.

Social support 

It can be comforting to know you’re not alone, and virtual or in-person support groups are another powerful resource in your healing process.

Online postpartum depression treatment: How Talkiatry can help 

At Talkiatry, we make it easy to access expert care for postpartum depression. Our psychiatrists meet with you online, so you can get evaluated and treated from home. We’ll work with you to create a tailored treatment plan—whether that involves medication, therapy referrals, or both—and we’ll make sure you feel supported at every step. 

Our staff is highly trained in postpartum depression treatment, and we use a matching process to connect you with a provider who can best support your care. If you’d like to start the process, it only takes about 10 minutes.