Distressing and sometimes debilitating mood disorders affect 1 in 4 women during pregnancy and postpartum. These disorders are caused by a combination of factors and present with a whole range of symptoms. Untreated, symptoms can get worse and both mom and baby will suffer. The good news is that there are lots of treatment options available. Below you will find more information about risk factors, symptoms, treatment options and resources. This information is only meant as a guide. You should not try to diagnose or treat yourself. Please talk to your doctor if you are suffering. Crisis If you are in crisis, call the Crisis Line at (907)563-3200 or go to your nearest emergency room. Types of Disorders
There are a number of different types of postpartum disorders. They are surprisingly common. The most common are Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Anxiety. These can occur in as many as 25% of women. Postpartum Depression is characterized by feelings of sadness and hopelessness and often accompanied by fear or regret. Postpartum Anxiety and Postpartum Panic Disorder are often experienced as an overwhelming sense of worry or nervousness. They are accompanied by significant physical symptoms. About 5% of women experience Postpartum Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. These women experience repetitive and disturbing images, thoughts or fears and often engage in ritualized behaviors that help calm those fears. Postpartum Post Traumatic Stress Disorder may occur if the birth experience was traumatic or if there is unresolved trauma in the mother's history. Postpartum Psychosis occurs in less than 1% of women postpartum. This condition is extremely rare and very serious. It is a real psychiatric emergency and needs to be treated as such. Moms may exhibit manic symptoms, elated mood, rapid and incoherent speech, possible auditory or visual hallucinations, suspiciousness, and withdrawal. They often don't realize that they are acting strangely and therefore it is important for others to recognize these symptoms and intervene. Risk Factors Personal or family history of mental illness or emotional instability Unplanned/unwanted pregnancy Poor social support system, marital difficulties Premenstrual mood changes, sensitivity to hormonal contraceptives Stressful life events History of trauma/abuse Unrealistically high expectations about childbirth and parenting Special needs/fussy baby Teen mom
Symptoms
Most women will experience some mood and emotional fluctuation during pregnancy and postpartum. This is normal. What you need to be concerned about is the severity and the duration of your symptoms. If you spend a day crying, probably normal, if you spend 2 weeks crying, probably cause for concern. The following are all symptoms to watch for: Frequent sadness or crying Insomnia (inability to sleep when the baby sleeps) Anger or irritability Emotional numbness, concern about ability to bond with the baby Changes in appetite Feeling overwhelmed Confusion Repetitive thoughts, images, fears Obsessive rituals Difficulty concentrating, indecisiveness Feelings of inadequacy or guilt Thoughts of suicide or escape fantasies Anxiety/panic
Treatment
There are as many treatment options and combinations of treatment options as there are women who experience mood disorders. It is important that you work with your healthcare provider to find the treatment that will work best for you and your family. Some effective treatments include: | 
