During the first few weeks after delivery up to 15% of new mothers experience Postpartum depression. This is characterized by mood swings, weepiness, decreased appetite, anxiety and feelings of inadequacy.

Women at greater risk of developing postpartum depression are those who had postpartum depression with a previous pregnancy, young mothers or those who have a history of depression when they are not pregnant. For most women the depression is temporary and goes away within a few weeks to a few months. However, for some mothers a more lasting type of postpartum depression occurs. These women may have more severe depression that interferes with their ability to function and do every day tasks.

Lack of sleep with caring for the new baby, medical complications of childbirth and other pressures associated with a new baby can worsen the depression. Most people feel hormones trigger the depression but exact causes have not been identified. Fathers can also suffer from the 'baby blues' (postpartum depression). For them it is usually a milder condition.

Any depression should be reported to your healthcare provider, especially if it interferes with your daily functioning. Below is a list of resources that can offer you more information about postpartum depression.

811 Nueces, Austin, TX 78701 Toll-Free Phone: 1-877-472-1002

624 N. Good-Latimer, Suite 200 Dallas, Texas 75204 Phone: 214-871-2420

3136 W. 4th Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76107 Phone: 817-335-5405

39 Community Mental Health Centers and NorthSTAR

Texas Department of Health Family Health Services: Information & Referral Line 1-800-422-2956

2-1-1 Texas, formerly First Call for Help, is a service for the entire community. 2-1-1 is the new abbreviated dialing code for free, bilingual information and referrals to health and human services and community organizations. 2-1-1 serves as the number to call for information about community organizations, and it links individuals and families to health and human services provided by nonprofit organizations and government agencies in their own community. 2-1-1 Texas is available in the Dallas\Forth Worth area.

Texas Information and Referral Network is