In this article:
You may feel like your thoughts are racing, your emotions are out of control, or your connection with reality is changing. These are not signs of weakness. They are signals from your mind and body asking for immediate care.
Key Symptoms You May Notice
Symptoms of postpartum psychosis may vary, but they often include a combination of emotional, cognitive, and behavioural changes. You may notice:- Sudden mood swings, from high energy to deep sadness
- Difficulty sleeping, even when the baby is asleep
- Racing or confusing thoughts
- Hallucinations, such as seeing or hearing things others do not
- Delusions, including strong beliefs that are not based on reality
- Extreme anxiety or suspicion
- Feeling disconnected from your baby or surroundings
- Impulsive or unpredictable behaviour
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
How Common is Postpartum Psychosis?
Postpartum psychosis is rare compared to other postpartum mental health conditions. According to medical data, it affects approximately 1 to 2 in every 1,000 new mothers. In India, with around 25 million births annually, this translates to thousands of cases occurring each year. Many remain undiagnosed due to a lack of awareness, stigma, or limited access to mental health services.Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of postpartum psychosis is not fully known, but several factors increase the risk. You may be at higher risk if you:- Have a family or personal history of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia
- Experienced postpartum psychosis in a previous pregnancy
- Have severe sleep deprivation after delivery
- Face extreme stress during pregnancy or childbirth
- Lack a strong support system during the postpartum phase
- Undergo hormonal shifts that affect mood and thought regulation
Recognising the Early Warning Signs
Early signs may appear subtle but can escalate quickly. Some of these include:- Trouble falling asleep for days despite exhaustion
- Sudden bursts of high energy or unusual excitement
- Intense feelings of fear or suspicion
- Thoughts that seem confusing or disconnected from reality
Getting the Right Diagnosis
If you or your family suspect postpartum psychosis, a medical professional must be contacted immediately. Diagnosis usually involves:- A detailed discussion of symptoms and changes after delivery
- Mental health evaluation by a psychiatrist
- Blood tests to rule out hormonal or physical causes
- Family input to provide context for sudden behavioural changes
Treatment Options Available
Postpartum psychosis is treatable with proper medical intervention. Treatment often includes:- Hospital Care: In severe cases, you may need hospitalisation for safety and round-the-clock support.
- Medication: Mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, and sometimes antidepressants are prescribed to balance brain chemistry.
- Therapy: Counselling and psychotherapy can help process emotions and support long-term recovery.
- Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): In rare, resistant cases, ECT may be considered under the guidance of a medical professional.
Role of Family and Community Support
Family plays a central role in recovery. You may find it challenging to recognise the seriousness of your condition, which makes family awareness essential.Support can include:
- Encouraging medical consultation without delay
- Assisting with childcare and household tasks
- Providing emotional reassurance without judgement
- Monitoring symptoms and medication routines
- Creating a calm, stress-free environment
Self-Care During Recovery
Alongside medical treatment, self-care helps in building strength and resilience. You can try:- Resting whenever possible, even if it means taking short naps
- Eating balanced, home-cooked meals with vegetables, pulses, and whole grains
- Staying hydrated with adequate water intake
- Practising gentle breathing exercises or meditation
- Seeking emotional support from trusted family or friends
- Avoiding isolation by connecting with other parents in support groups
The Indian Context
In India, mental health after childbirth is often under-discussed. Cultural expectations may place pressure on you to appear strong or handle everything without complaint.However, acknowledging difficulties is not a sign of weakness. It is an act of responsibility. Recognising that postpartum psychosis is a medical condition, just like high blood pressure or diabetes, can help reduce stigma and encourage timely treatment.
Government and private health centres are now expanding maternal mental health services. Many hospitals in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai offer postpartum psychiatric support. Rural areas are still catching up, but awareness is gradually growing through health programmes and outreach workers.
When to Seek Immediate Help
You should seek emergency medical care if you experience:- Hallucinations or delusions
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Complete inability to sleep for several nights
- Rapid mood swings that feel uncontrollable
Long-Term Outlook
With treatment, most people recover fully from postpartum psychosis. Recovery time may vary, but improvement often begins within weeks of medical care.You may need ongoing follow-up for several months or years, especially if there is a history of mental illness. With proper management, you can enjoy parenthood without fear of relapse.
Planning for future pregnancies should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Preventive care, early monitoring, and strong family support can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious mental health condition that requires immediate medical attention. Recognising early signs, seeking professional care, and relying on family and community support are crucial steps in recovery. In the Indian context, breaking the stigma around maternal mental health is vital. With awareness, timely diagnosis, and consistent treatment, you can recover fully and confidently embrace parenthood.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on The Hidden Storm After Birth: Getting Help for Postpartum Psychosis
- Is postpartum psychosis the same as postpartum depression?
No. Postpartum psychosis is more severe, often involving hallucinations and delusions. Postpartum depression mainly involves sadness, fatigue, and low mood. - Can postpartum psychosis happen after a C-section delivery?
Yes. The mode of delivery does not prevent or cause psychosis. It can occur after both normal and surgical births. - Can postpartum psychosis affect someone with no prior mental health history?
Yes. Although risk is higher with a history of mental illness, postpartum psychosis can occur even without prior psychiatric conditions. - How long does recovery usually take?
Recovery can take anywhere from weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition and the timeliness of treatment. With consistent care, most people recover fully. - Is postpartum psychosis hereditary?
It may have a genetic component, especially if there is a family history of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. However, not everyone with a family history of the condition develops it.
