Overview Perinatal depression refers to depressive symptoms that can occur any time from conception through 18 months postpartum. While the term "postpartum depression" (PPD) is commonly used, it’s important to recognize that mood disturbances often begin during pregnancy and may persist well beyond the immediate postpartum period. This broader timeframe captures a range of emotional and psychological challenges associated with pregnancy and the postpartum experience. Understanding these challenges is vital for early recognition, appropriate intervention, and reducing stigma. The Emotional Impact of Pregnancy Pregnancy is a time of significant physical, hormonal, and emotional changes. Common stressors that may contribute to perinatal depression include: Physical discomforts such as nausea, fatigue, and body pain Hormonal fluctuations Changing identity and roles Shifts in relationships or social support Anxiety about childbirth and parenting These stressors can influence a pregnant person's mental health and may lead to the development of depressive symptoms even before the baby is born. Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression In the first week following delivery, many individuals experience what is commonly referred to as the  “baby blues.”  This condition affects up to 80% of new mothers and is typically characterized by: Mood swings Tearfulness Feeling overwhelmed Mild sadness or irritability Difficulty sleeping These symptoms usually begin within the first few days after birth and resolve on their own within 1–2 weeks. However, if these feelings persist or intensify beyond two weeks, they may signal  postpartum depression , which requires clinical attention. Postpartum Depression: Recognizing the Signs Postpartum depression (PPD)  is a more severe and longer-lasting condition than the baby blues. It can occur any time in the first 18 months after childbirth and possibly up to 24 months, as ongoing research continues to expand our understanding of the postpartum period. PPD may present in a variety of ways, including: Persistent sadness or low mood Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities Fatigue or low energy Feelings of worthlessness or guilt Difficulty concentrating or making decisions Changes in appetite or sleep patterns Social withdrawal Anger, including sudden outbursts, irritability, and difficulty controlling frustration Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby (in severe cases) It’s important to note that  anger and irritability  are common but often overlooked symptoms of postpartum depression. New parents may feel short-tempered, overwhelmed, or emotionally reactive in ways that feel unfamiliar or distressing. Many parents do not speak up about these symptoms due to stigma or fear of judgment. However, PPD is a medical condition—not a character flaw—and treatment is available. Postpartum Anxiety and Related Conditions While postpartum depression is widely discussed,  postpartum anxiety  may be even more prevalent. This condition can manifest as: Constant worry about the baby's health or safety Physical symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, or gastrointestinal discomfort Panic attacks Avoidance of leaving the house or social situations Postpartum anxiety may progress into  Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) , characterized by: Intrusive, unwanted thoughts or images Compulsive behaviors aimed at preventing harm Hypervigilance regarding the baby’s safety Catastrophic thinking and planning for worst-case scenarios These symptoms can become debilitating and may interfere with daily functioning and the parent-child bond. Postpartum Psychosis: A Psychiatric Emergency Postpartum psychosis  is a rare but  extremely serious  psychiatric condition that affects approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 births. It typically presents within the first two weeks postpartum, but onset can occur later. Unlike other postpartum mood disorders, postpartum psychosis is considered a  psychiatric emergency  and requires immediate medical intervention. Symptoms of Postpartum Psychosis include: Delusions (false beliefs not based in reality) Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there) Extreme confusion or disorientation Paranoia or suspiciousness Severe mood swings Inability to sleep Rapid shifts in energy or behavior Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby This condition carries a  high risk of harm  to both the parent and the child if left untreated. In some cases, individuals may lose touch with reality and act on delusional beliefs, which can result in tragic outcomes. Risk Factors include: Personal or family history of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia Previous experience of postpartum psychosis Abrupt discontinuation of psychiatric medication during pregnancy or postpartum Treatment for Postpartum Psychosis: Immediate hospitalization  for safety and stabilization Antipsychotic medications , mood stabilizers, and/or benzodiazepines In some cases,  electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)  may be considered Ongoing psychiatric follow-up and family support Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial. With appropriate care, recovery is possible, and recurrence can often be prevented in future pregnancies with careful planning. Treatment Options for Perinatal Mood Disorders Effective treatment is available for perinatal and postpartum mood disorders. The best approach often includes a combination of  medication  and  therapy , tailored to each individual’s needs. Medication SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) NRIs (Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)  – a less common class Atypical antipsychotics (e.g., quetiapine)  may be used for sleep disturbances and ruminative thoughts Medications are selected with care, particularly for breastfeeding parents. Sedating medications like hypnotics (e.g., Ambien) are typically avoided in favor of options that allow for night-time caregiving. Psychotherapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) : Helps patients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, manage intrusive thoughts, and develop coping strategies. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) : Focuses on improving communication, relationships, and support systems. Combined care : Some providers offer both therapy and medication management, while others may refer to separate professionals for each. Duration of Treatment and Ongoing Management Typically, medication for perinatal mood disorders is continued for a  minimum of six months , with many providers recommending  12 months or longer . However, the decision to discontinue medication should be made with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. We often consider  weaning medication between 12 and 18 months postpartum , but this decision should be made on a  case-by-case basis , taking into account: The individual's previous mental health history Current life circumstances (social, professional, and relational stability) Support systems and stressors Risk of relapse Additionally, there is growing recognition that postpartum mood disorders may extend up to  24 months postpartum . This may influence future guidelines for monitoring and treatment. Importantly, this does  not  mean that individuals cannot stop medication after 12 months. It simply underscores the need for thoughtful consideration of the next 6 to 12 months following discontinuation—especially up to the child’s second birthday—and how this transition aligns with the individual's broader mental health history and current functioning. This is a  personalized decision  that should be made in close collaboration with your provider, ensuring both safety and long-term wellness. Encouragement to Seek Help Many new parents suffer in silence due to fear, stigma, or misconceptions about mental health. It’s crucial to remember: These conditions are  common ,  treatable , and  not a reflection of parenting ability Providers are trained to support—not judge—those who are struggling Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for both the parent and the baby Postpartum psychosis, though rare, should always be treated as a medical emergency Conclusion Postpartum depression and related perinatal mood disorders—including anxiety, OCD, and psychosis—are serious but treatable conditions. Raising awareness, reducing stigma, and ensuring access to care are critical steps in supporting the mental health of new and expecting parents. If you or someone you know is struggling,  talk to your healthcare provider immediately . Help is available. Recovery is not only possible—it's expected with the right support.

menTELEhealthy offers teletherapy with Lydia Hammond, serving clients seeking to stay mentally healthy across New Mexico, Oregon, and Arizona. If you're looking for mental health support from a trusted provider, menTELEhealthy can help. Lydia Hammond specializes in compassionate care to support your mental health journey wherever you are. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-BC, CNM Lydia Hammond (she, her) Schedule An Appointment Welcome I provide telehealth care in New Mexico, Arizona and Oregon. Appts are currently scheduled on MST. I am driven to help people find the best way to navigate their mental health. I offer education, brief counseling, and herbal and medication management services. I start by hearing people's stories, what brought them to seeking mental healthcare, and what they seek to gain from it. I strongly believe that client active participation in their mental healthcare is the path to healing and meeting their goals. I have 6 children and love working with youth. My experience as a midwife over the last 14 years fosters my love for serving. I have extensive experience in diagnosis and treatment of anxiety, depression, and bipolar illness. I have a special interest in serving youth, women and LGBTQ+ populations, but enjoy serving all humans that are seeking a healing journey. I incorporate CBT, interpersonal therapy, and motivational interviewing into my 30 min sessions of medication management. I am excited to serve all peoples who are seeking to take back their lives and find themselves again. Often times humans can lose themselves in depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns. Treatment can guide them back to who they are and who they are meant to be. I love to be a part of that journey and I am blessed when someone chooses me to help. Insurance Accepted I currently accept insurance in Arizona , New Mexico , and Oregon . If you have any questions about coverage or eligibility, please feel free to fill out the contact form below or email us at mentelehealthy@gmail.com. I’m excited to share that I now accept New Mexico Medicaid through Blue Cross Blue Shield (Turquoise Care)! In addition, I work with all Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico plans, including both Medicaid and Medicare, ensuring broad access to care for individuals and families across the state. I also accept Quest Behavioral Health. For those without insurance or choosing to pay privately, I offer self-pay rates: $200 for new patient appointments $175 for follow-up sessions UnitedHealthcare UnitedHealthcare Shared Services (UHSS) GEHA - UnitedHealthcare Shared Services (UHSS) UnitedHealthcare Global UnitedHealthCare Exchange Plans (ONEX) Optum* Oscar Oxford UHC Student Resources UMR All Savers (UHC) Health Plans Inc Surest (Formerly Bind) Meritain Nippon Allied Benefit Systems Trustmark Trustmark Small Business Benefits Health Scope Christian Brothers Services Allegiance Daniel H. Cook Administrators Professional Benefit Administrators S&S Healthcare Strategies Tall Tree Administrators Trustmark Wellfleet Group, LLC Southwest Service Administrators Paragon Benefits *Coverage varies by individual insurance plan and may include copays, coinsurance, or deductibles. Please contact your insurance provider directly to understand your specific benefits. Amber D. Lydia's impact on my life is immeasurable. From guiding me through mastitis during my first daughter's early days to supporting me through the chaos of Covid while welcoming another child, she was an absolute godsend. Her expertise, compassion, and unwavering support were invaluable during those pivotal moments. But what truly sets Lydia apart is her genuine care and dedication. She didn't just provide medical assistance; she became a trusted friend and confidante. Even after she was no longer my doctor, Lydia continued to be a pillar of support, offering invaluable advice for my marriage and helping me heal from past relationships and PTSD. Thank you, Lydia, for being the most amazing woman I've ever met. Your guidance and friendship mean the world to me.

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Access mental health tools and educational resources from menTELEhealthy, created by Lydia Hammond to help you stay mentally healthy. Find trusted support for mental health in New Mexico, Oregon, and Arizona—whether you're in therapy or just starting your wellness journey. Resources Direct Links Zocdoc Headway Alma CharmHealth (Coming Soon) Psychology Today Helpful Links RAADS-R | Embrace Autism Helpful Documents MDQ Bipolar Screening Weiss Functional Impairment: Multi-Diagnosis Tool Weiss Symptom Record: Multi-Diagnosis Tool