Treating Postpartum Mood Disorders: Weighing the Risks and Benefits
Postpartum mood disorders—including postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and in rare cases, psychosis—can deeply impact a parent's mental health, relationships, and ability to bond with their baby. When faced with symptoms, many parents wonder: Should I seek treatment? What are the risks? What if I just try to tough it out?
These are valid and important questions. Let’s take a closer look at the potential risks and benefits of treating postpartum mood disorders versus not treating them—so you can make the most informed, empowered decision for yourself and your family.
The Risks of Not Treating Postpartum Mood Disorders
While it might feel easier to try and “push through,” untreated postpartum mood disorders can have lasting effects:
Prolonged suffering. Symptoms like persistent sadness, rage, intrusive thoughts, or panic attacks often don’t resolve on their own—and can get worse without support.
Impact on bonding. It can be harder to connect with your baby when you're struggling emotionally, which may affect early attachment.
Relationship strain. Partners and loved ones may not understand what you're going through, leading to conflict, disconnection, or resentment.
Daily functioning. When untreated, postpartum mood disorders can interfere with sleep, appetite, focus, and the ability to care for yourself and your baby.
Increased risk of future episodes. Untreated symptoms can increase the risk of mental health challenges in future pregnancies or life stages.
Safety concerns. In severe cases (especially with postpartum psychosis or severe depression), there may be risks to your safety or your baby’s, requiring urgent intervention.
The Benefits of Treating Postpartum Mood Disorders
Seeking treatment is not a sign of weakness—it's a powerful act of care for both you and your family. The benefits of treatment often include:
Improved mood and energy. With the right support, many parents feel relief from sadness, anxiety, irritability, and intrusive thoughts.
Stronger bond with baby. Feeling emotionally present and regulated helps you connect more fully with your child.
Better relationship dynamics. Therapy can help you communicate more effectively with your partner or support system.
Increased confidence. Treatment helps you develop coping tools and feel more empowered in your role as a parent.
Long-term emotional health. Early intervention can reduce the risk of future mental health episodes and support ongoing well-being.
What Does Treatment Look Like?
Treatment doesn't always mean medication—though for some, medication can be life-changing and safe even during breastfeeding. Options include:
Therapy. Working with a therapist trained in perinatal mental health can help you process your experience, reduce symptoms, and learn new tools.
Medication. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are often effective, and many are safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Discuss with your doctor to find what’s right for you.
Support groups. Peer support can be incredibly validating and reduce the sense of isolation.
Lifestyle adjustments. Sleep support, nutrition, movement, and boundaries around overstimulation can all play a meaningful role in healing.
Final Thoughts
Every parent deserves to feel supported and well. The decision to pursue treatment is personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But for many, the benefits of getting help far outweigh the risks of staying silent or struggling alone.
Postpartum mood disorders are not your fault, and they are very treatable. You are not broken, and you're not a bad parent. You are doing your best—and seeking support may be one of the most loving things you do for yourself and your family.