Pregnancy & Postpartum Psychosis Awareness Day
Friday May 1, 2026
Founded by Cherished Mom, PPP Awareness Day is an annual initiative built from lived experience and designed to create lasting, life-saving impact.
Pregnancy and Postpartum Psychosis (PPP), also known as postpartum psychosis, is a serious mental health condition that occurs in approximately 1 to 2 of every 1,000 deliveries. can be life-threatening for both the mother and baby. Early identification and intervention are crucial for preventing tragic outcomes.
Why it Matters...
Individuals and healthcare providers must recognize the early warning signs of PPP, seek prompt medical attention, and provide comprehensive support to ensure the well-being of affected individuals and their families as there is an estimated 5% suicide rate and 4% infanticide rate associated with psychosis. The person experiencing PPP may not realize they are not well.
Join us in raising awareness about PPP to empower families and healthcare providers to recognize the signs, take swift action, and save lives.
Stay Safe After Having Your Baby: What Every 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.
Call 911 or go to the Emergency Room. Bring this flyer with you.
Do Not Leave the Mom Alone. Someone must stay with her at all times to keep her safe.
Remove Dangers. Secure or remove any weapons or items that could be used for harm.
Talk and Listen. Ask, "Are you feeling okay?" and listen without judging.
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
Online Support: Visit isMOMok.org
Through shared stories,
PPP Awareness Day aims to:
Increase Awareness
Educate the public about the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of postpartum psychosis — and help distinguish it from other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
Reduce Stigma
Create a safe, supportive space where mothers and families can talk about postpartum psychosis without shame, fear, or judgment.
Emphasize the critical importance of immediate professional care when symptoms of postpartum psychosis appear. Early recognition and treatment save lives.
Promote Early Intervention
Provide Resources
Connect individuals and families with specialized resources that support treatment, recovery, and long-term well-being.
Advocate for Research
Support continued research to improve understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for those affected by postpartum psychosis.
