05/04/2024
“Today is Perinatal & Postpartum Psychosis (PPP) Awareness Day.
The heaviness and intensity of this maternal mental health disorder is at times misunderstood. This particular diagnosis is real close to my heart.
It’s important to know the signs, and to know where you can get help. Below is the caption from who does great work in this area.
PPP occurs in approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 deliveries, and the onset is often sudden and the symptoms can wax and wane, even over the course of hours.
PPP can happen to any person who gets pregnant and gives birth, with the most significant risk factors including a personal or family history of bipolar disorder, a previous psychotic episode, or experiencing PPP in a previous pregnancy.
While there is approximately a 5% su***de rate and 4% infanticide rate associated with PPP, It is important to know that many survivors of PPP never experienced delusions containing violent commands. Delusions take many forms, and not all of them are destructive. The majority of individuals who experience PPP do not harm themselves or anyone else.
PPP is always a medical emergency. If you think you or a person you know is struggling reach out.
Thank you for raising awareness today and every day about this 💜”