SOUTHWEST FLORIDA — According to the World Health Organization, nearly one in five women experience a mental health condition while pregnant or shortly after birth.
Several factors may increase the risk for new mothers to develop postpartum depression, including family or personal history of mental health disorders, lack of support from loved ones, financial strain or stress that comes from a high-risk pregnancy or trouble breastfeeding.
Suicide is a leading cause of maternal mortality, 20% of those deaths are postpartum.
Hormone levels are changing, lack of sleep and isolation can result in feelings of sadness, hopelessness, irritability or guilt.
There are some obstacles preventing mothers to seek help. Such as stigma and fear as well as social media creating unrealistic expectations.
