Trigger Warning: Mentions of mental health distress, self-harm, and suicide.

In Crisis or know someone who is?​
call or text 988

If you are in mental health distress or have a suicidal crisis, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free and confidential support. in the US.

Mental health struggles are common during pregnancy or in the year after having a baby, reaching out for support is a brave and necessary step. If you're feeling this way, it’s okay to ask for help. If you are experiencing an emergency, scared you may harm yourself or someone else, go to your nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1

Not in crisis but need real time support and resources?

Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).

Support is free and available from professionals for US based pregnant and postpartum people — in multiple languages and across diverse communities.

Just need resources and referrals?

Support is free and available from volunteers for mothers, pregnant parents, dads and partners, and caregivers worldwide.

What Every Expecting and New Parent Should Know

Having a baby is a big change, but sometimes moms face very serious mental health problems during pregnancy or in the first year after birth. Postpartum Psychosis (PPP) and maternal suicide are medical emergencies that need help right away to keep both mom and baby safe.

⚠️ Who is at Higher Risk?

You might be at a higher risk if:

  • You or your family have a history of bipolar disorder, psychosis, or schizophrenia.

  • You have had PPP or have tried to hurt yourself before.

  • You have struggled with drug or alcohol use.

🧠 How Mom Might Feel (Inside)

  • Extreme Fear: Feeling very scared, worried, or having panic attacks.

  • The "Fog": Feeling numb or like you are in a fog.

  • Racing Thoughts: Having thoughts that move too fast or feeling way too energetic (“elated”).

  • Scary Thoughts: Thinking about hurting yourself, your baby, or others.

  • Sadness: Feeling very guilty, worthless, or overwhelmed with sadness.

  • Sleep Issues: Not being able to sleep at all, even when the baby is sleeping.

👀 What Others Might See (Outside)

  • Seeing or Hearing Things: Seeing or hearing things that other people do not.

  • False Beliefs: Having strange concerns or believing things that aren't true.

  • Acting Different: Acting very angry, agitated, or strange.

  • Withdrawing: Pulling away from friends, family, or the baby.

  • Dangerous Signs: Giving away belongings, looking for ways to end their life, or suddenly acting very calm after a period of distress.

🚨 What to Do Right Away

If you see these signs, do not wait. PPP can get worse very fast.

  1. Call 911 or go to the Emergency Room. Bring this flyer with you.

  2. Do Not Leave the Mom Alone. Someone must stay with her at all times to keep her safe.

  3. Remove Dangers. Secure or remove any weapons or items that could be used for harm.

  4. Talk and Listen. Ask, "Are you feeling okay?" and listen without judging.

  5. Call Professionals. Contact her doctor, OB/GYN, or psychiatrist immediately.

📞 Free Resources for Help

  • National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988

  • National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Call or Text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)

  • Postpartum Support International Helpline: Call 1-800-944-4733