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.
PPP Risk Factors
Women with a personal or family history of bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, psychosis. or schizophrenia are at risk.
What You May See
Unusual, agitated or erratic behavior or speech
Inability to fall or stay asleep
Extreme mood or behavior changes
Unusual false beliefs or concerns (delusions)
Seeing or Hearing things that others can not (hallucinations)
When Does PPP Happen?
The most intense risk period is within the first 14 days after delivery. Risk can remain elevated for up to one year.
What Mom May Feel
Confusion
Intense fear or paranoia
Constant worry or panic attack
Feeling numb or "in a fog"
Racing thoughts
Difficulty bonding with the baby
Feeling elated or very energetic
Unable to sleep
Thoughts of harming oneself, others, or your baby.
Take Action
Call 911 or Go to the Emergency Room: This is a psychiatric emergency that can escalate quickly.
Do Not Leave the Person Alone: Supervise at all times to prevent harm.
Contact Professionals Immediately: Reach out to a doctor, psychiatrist, obstetrician, or midwife for an urgent care.
Have someone trusted take charge of the baby and other children.
Remove Dangers. Secure any weapons, firearms, car keys, or medications.
Free Resources
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1-833-TLC-MAMA
Postpartum Support International Helpline 1-800-944-4733
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call 988
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.
