Perinatal/Postpartum Psychosis Help

Symptoms of Postpartum Psychosis can include:

• Delusions or strange beliefs
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
• Feeling very agitated
• Hyperactivity or having more energy than usual
• Severe depression or lack of emotion
• Decreased need for or inability to sleep
• Paranoia and suspiciousness
• Rapid mood swings
• Difficulty communicating at times

Immediate treatment for a person going through psychosis is imperative. Individuals experiencing Postpartum Psychosis are at higher risk of harming themselves or others (including their infant); however, it should be noted that the vast majority do not. This is because the individual experiencing psychosis is experiencing a break from reality. In their psychotic state, the delusions and beliefs make sense to them; delusions feel very real and are often religious. Immediate treatment for someone going through psychosis is imperative.

It is also important to know that many survivors of Postpartum Psychosis never experienced delusions containing violent commands. Delusions take many forms, and not all of them are destructive. The majority of individuals who experience Postpartum Psychosis do not harm themselves or anyone else. However, there is always the risk of danger because psychosis includes delusional thinking and irrational judgment, and this is why this illness must be quickly assessed, treated, and carefully monitored by a trained healthcare or perinatal mental health professional.

Postpartum Psychosis is temporary and treatable with professional help, but it is an emergency, and it is essential that you receive immediate help. If you feel you or someone you know may be suffering from this illness, know that it is not your fault and you are not to blame. It is important to stay with the perinatal individual and the child to ensure everyone’s safety. Call your doctor or an emergency crisis hotline right away so that you can get the help you need.

The most significant risk factor for Postpartum Psychosis is a personal or family history of bipolar disorder, or a previous psychotic episode. It may also include prolonged lack of sleep (for instance, going days without any sleep).

The majority of individuals who experience Postpartum Psychosis do not harm themselves or anyone else. However, there is always the risk of danger because psychosis includes delusional thinking and irrational judgment. It is important to stay with the perinatal individual and the child to ensure everyone’s safety. Call your doctor or an emergency crisis hotline right away so that you can get the help you need.

• Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 833-852–6262. Hotline Counselors are available to discuss and explore next steps for you and your loved one. Available 24/7, in the United States only.
• Intensive Treatment Facilities are available and are listed here.

After inpatient psychiatric treatment:

After emergency treatment, those individuals who have experienced Postpartum Psychosis should be followed by a doctor and therapist to continue treatment, including medication and ongoing therapy. PSI hosts peer support groups for Postpartum Psychosis survivors and those affected. Additional resources are available here.