Thunder Bay District Health Unit : Postpartum Depression and Other Mood Disorders

LIFE WITH A NEW BABY

PROVINCIAL CAMPAIGN

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Having a baby is supposed to be one of the happiest times in a woman's life but sometimes it's not. Many new mothers feel worried, sad, overwhelmed or angry after the birth of a baby. Postpartum (after birth) mood disorders can appear during any pregnancy or with the adoption of a baby. These feelings can be mild or intense and are caused by:

less sleep
hormonal changes
physical changes of pregnancy and birth
adjusting to having a new baby to care for

Postpartum or "Baby Blues"

affect 30-75% of women
the blues tend to appear in the first few hours to days after birth and usually do not last longer than 2 weeks
in some cases women's symptoms worsen and become depression

Symptoms of Postpartum Mood Disorders

feeling low,sad, empty or tearful
loss of interest/pleasure in activities
changes in appetite
hearing voices
feeling tired/concentration problems
recurring thoughts and fears about harm coming to baby, family or self
feelings of worthlesness or guilt
not being able to sleep when the baby sleeps or no need to sleep
disturbing thoughts and images that are upsetting and frightening
feeling helpless and overwhelmed
feeling like you are "crazy"

If any of this sounds like you, you're not alone

You don't have to suffer in silence

You don't have to be afraid

Help is available!

Information & Support for City of Thunder Bay

If you or someone you know is having symptoms of postpartum mood disorders and need more information call:

24-hour Crisis Response Service Canadian Mental Health Association:

Thunder Bay 346-8282 Toll free 1-888-269-3100

More Postpartum Depression Services in Thunder Bay

"Beyond the Baby Blues" Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Support Group

The support group provides an opportunity for women to talk about their feelings with other women. They are able to learn about the illness and learn effective ways in which to cope.

Ontario Early Years Centre

Northwood Mall

(fourth Monday of the month

1:00-3:00pm)

Hilldale Lutheran Church

321 Hilldale Road

(second Wednesday the month

1:00-3:00pm)

September 24

September 12

October 22

October 10

November 26

November 14

December 17

December 12

January 28

January 9

February 25

February 13

March 31

March 19

April 28

April 9

May 26

May 14

June 23

June 11

July 28

Closed

August 25

Closed

Free childcare available for children 0-6 yrs!

For information, referral or registration call 625-5972

Information and Support for the District of Thunder Bay

North of Superior Mental Health Services

Geraldton: 854-1321

Longlac: 876-2235

Manitouwadge: 826-4517

Marathon: 229-0607

Nipigon: 887-2632

Schreiber: 824-2867

Terrace Bay: 824-3238

More Postpartum Depression Services in the District

What Can You Do?

Rest when the baby sleeps
Try to follow a simple Daily Routine
Ask For Help-don't try to do it all yourself
Choose one or two chores a day
Take Care of Yourself-shower and dress each day
Take Time For Yourself- go out for a walk, meet a friend, talk with other mothers
Talk About How You Feel to people you are comfortable with
Play and Enjoy the Good Moments with your baby
Give Yourself a Pat on the Back-adjusting to motherhood is hard work
Consider individual counselling
Consider medication options

If you have signs of postpartum depression or anxiety, reach out.

Tell your health care provider!

Diagnosis and treatment are the keys to recovery!

Other Links

The Pacific Postpartum Society

Postpartum Support International

Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression