Postpartum depression is a real illness that affects one in ten women after the birth of a child. Symptoms include:
* Frequent crying
* Sleep disturbances (insomnia/excessive sleeping)
* Appetite disturbances
* Anxiety/panic attacks
* Overconcern/underconcer of baby
* Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
* Feeling overwhelmed/unable to cope
* Irritablity/anger
* Loss of interest in things you previously enjoyed
* Fear of harming baby or yourself
If you beleive you or someone you know is suffering from postpartum depression, there is help available. You are not alone!
The Postpartum Resource Center of New York, Inc. is a self-help organization established to provide emotional support, information, and professional and support group referrals to mothers suffering from postpartum depression. They are a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing community involvment and awareness of the various types of emotional disorders a women can experience during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Many women suffering from postpartum depression have never sufferd from emotional problems in the past. Symptoms may come without warning and are very frightening. Most new parents do not know where to turn for information. It is the job of the Postpartum Resource Center of New York, Inc. to make the search fr help easier. They offer:
* Professional referrals
* Education and information
* Support groups
* Telephone support
For more information, to speak to someone about postpartum depression or to make a tax deductible donation to their organization call 631-488-2255 or visit their web site at www.postpartumNY.org