Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 1 in 7 new moms — but there are powerful, evidence-based ways to reduce your risk. Prevention isn’t about perfection; it’s about building resilience, support, and self-awareness 💛.

🧠 Know Your Risk Factors

While PPD can affect anyone, some factors increase vulnerability:

Personal history of anxiety, depression, or PMDD
Past PPD or bipolar disorder
Unplanned pregnancy or fertility struggles
Lack of social support or relationship strain
Financial stress or big life transitions

✅ Proven Strategies That Help

1. 💬 Therapy During Pregnancy

CBT: Learn to shift unhelpful thoughts
IPT: Strengthen relationships and adjust to new roles
Mindfulness: Build present-moment awareness
Psychoeducation: Know what to expect emotionally

2. 👯 Build Your Support Network

Include your partner in preparations
Set clear expectations with family
Stay connected with friends and support groups
Choose a trusted mental health provider

3. 🥗 Take Care of Your Body

Move regularly (even gentle yoga helps!)
Eat mood-supporting foods (omega-3s, B vitamins, protein)
Prioritize sleep and vitamin D

4. 📝 Create a Postpartum Plan

Identify helpers (meals, chores, baby care)
Plan for emotional check-ins
Make a “what to watch for” list with your partner

🔍 Watch for Early Signs

Even with prevention, PPD can happen. Look out for:

Low mood lasting 2+ weeks
Severe anxiety or panic
Sleep problems (even when baby sleeps)
Feeling disconnected or overwhelmed
Thoughts of harm to self or baby

📚 Programs That Work

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focused on identifying negative thought patterns and changing behaviors to live a more balanced life
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focused on improving social support and processing role changes

❤️ At Bloom Psychology

We offer personalized PPD prevention planning with:

Prenatal therapy focused on emotional prep
Partner-inclusive sessions
Becoming Mom: an 8-week therapy program for pregnant or recently postpartum women
Postpartum E-Course
Partner Support Bootcamp E-Course

🌷 Prevention is a powerful act of love — for yourself and your baby. You deserve support now, not just after something goes wrong.