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Treatment

Treatment Options for
Pregnancy-Related Depression

If you have some symptoms, don't panic. Remember, depression is treatable and it can happen to anyone. It does not mean you are a bad mother.


        Helpline   1-800-862-1889

Talk with someoneTalk to someone. Some women don't tell anyone about their symptoms because they feel embarrassed, ashamed, or guilty. They worry that they will be viewed as an unfit parent. But to get well, you must seek help.

Talk to your health care provider and let him or her know how you are feeling. Most likely, one or both of these treatments will be recommended:

  • Talk therapy. This involves talking to a therapist, psychologist, or social worker to learn to change how depression makes you think, feel, and act.

  • Medicine. Your health care provider can give you antidepressant medication. Many medicines are available and some work very quickly. Taking medicine for depression is just like taking medicine for other illnesses. Don't feel ashamed because you need it.

Some pregnant women are concerned that taking medicine may harm the baby. A mother's depression can also affect her baby's development, so getting treatment is important for both mother and baby. The risks of taking medicine have to be weighed against the risks of depression. That's why it is important for you to discuss the decision with your health care provider.