It's very common for new mom's to experience postpartum blues. This involves feelings of sadness, anxiety or confusion mixed with irritability.  If these symptoms get worse instead of better and /or last for more than a few weeks, Postpartum Depression becomes a concern.  Advocate Condell physicians take this concern very seriously and are proactive in screening new and expectant mothers during their prenatal care as well as during the postpartum period. 

Other resources

• Free and confidential 24/7 hotline for any mother needing support 1-866-364-MOMS
• Perinatal Depression Booklet:  A free educational brochure provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration of the US Department of Health and Human Services can be downloaded at: http://mchb.hrsa.gov/pregnancyandbeyond/depression/
• Depression After Delivery: http://www.depressionafterdelivery.com/
• The National Women's Health Information Center: http://www.4woman.gov/