The Stigma of Postpartum Depression: Why You Shouldn’t Blame Yourself
PPD is very common and does not reflect your worth as a parent or person.
Some people who experience postpartum depression (PPD) worry that it’s a sign they are not “good parents.” This is completely untrue: PPD is a common condition caused by drastic changes in hormone levels, sense of identity, and stressors.
In this video, learn why having PPD is nothing to be ashamed of, and why it’s important to seek treatment early, according to Naomi Torres-Mackie, PhD, Clinical Psychologist at Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health.
References
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Postpartum depression.
Mughal, S., et al. (2022). Postpartum depression. StatPearls.
Thorsteinsson, E. B., et al. (2018). Changes in stigma and help-seeking in relation to postpartum depression: non-clinical parenting intervention sample. PeerJ.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). FDA approves first oral treatment for postpartum depression.
U.S. Office on Women’s Health. (2023). Postpartum depression.