Women can experience depression and anxiety before, during and after pregnancy. By learning to recognize and understand Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMD), women can seek support from their family and friends and get medical help.

Sylvia's Story
	Sylvia's postpartum depression began moments after her daughter's birth. Her condition became so severe that Melina lived with her grandparents until she was 9 months old. Sylvia wrote A Daughter's Touch about her experience. Watch her story.

Q&A

Does being depressed mean that I can't be a good mother?

It is not uncommon for depressed mothers to feel guilt and shame about their depression. This guilt and shame will often manifest itself as insecurities about the ability to mother. Depressed mothers need to know that PMD is a medical illness like any other medical condition.

It is not their "fault" and is not a reflection of being a "bad" mother. Mothers with PMD who are responding to treatment are perfectly capable of taking care of their child and can be as "good" a mother as any other woman.

Read more questions and answers.

Supporters' Corner

Partner support is crucial in the treatment of and recovery from PMD.

The more supportive you are of her condition and treatment, the smoother her recovery will be. Learn other tips to help family and friends support a woman suffering from PMD.

Don't miss the stories of men who have helped their wives recover from PPD. Sylvia's husband, Michael, fought feelings of selfishness and sadness over his wife's condition.

Frequently Asked Questions
	call the helpline 1-800-328-3838	Find a Support Group