Postpartum depression (PPD) is far more than experiencing the baby blues after giving birth. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects up to 15% of mothers, according to Postpartum Support International (PSI). Despite its prevalence, PPD is frequently misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or undertreated, which can leave parents feeling isolated, ashamed, and unsure about seeking help.
As October shines a light on mental illness awareness, it’s an opportunity to clarify the facts, dispel harmful myths, and encourage parents to seek the professional care they deserve free from fear or stigma. Here’s the truth behind some of the most common PPD misconceptions.
Myth #1: It’s just the “baby blues.”
Unlike the baby blues, which last a few days, PPD is more intense, long-lasting, and may require talk therapy or treatment by a healthcare professional.
Myth #2: Feeling depressed makes you a bad parent.
PPD is a mental health condition, not a reflection of your parenting abilities or love for your child.
Myth #3: You’ll feel better if you try harder.
PPD isn’t about willpower. Professional help, such as talk therapy, support groups, or medication, may be needed to help parents.
Myth #4: PPD only affects the mother.
PPD doesn’t just affect mothers. Fathers can also experience PPD due to hormonal changes and parenting stresses after a baby’s arrival and need support, too.
Myth #5: Women with PPD harm their babies.
Very few women with PPD harm their children, an act typically linked to postpartum psychosis—a very rare and severe condition requiring emergency medical attention, according to PSI.
Myth #6: Women with PPD cry all the time.
While crying is often part of it, PPD can also show up as irritability, anxiety, sleeplessness, or emotional numbness.
Myth #7: PPD will go away on its own.
Left untreated, PPD can last for several years. PPD requires professional care. The good news is that it’s highly treatable, and with the proper support, many parents find relief.
By debunking these harmful myths, we can empower families, friends, and healthcare providers to offer the understanding and support parents need to heal and thrive. If you or someone you love is facing PPD, know that reaching out for help is a courageous first step toward recovery.
• Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) for 24/7 free access to professional counselors. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing, use your preferred relay service or dial 711, then 1-833-852-6262.
• Parents can also visit PSI for helpful resources, including support groups.
• Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free access to a trained crisis counselor who can support you and connect you with additional help and resources. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing, use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
Reproductive Women’s Health is a division of the Tennessee Department of Health. For more information on maternal health and resources designed to support mothers, women, and families, visit us here.