Reaching out is strength. Here's when to do it, and exactly who to contact.
Good people to contact: your OB-GYN or midwife, your primary care doctor, your baby's pediatrician (they screen for this too), or a therapist. Asking is never an overreaction.
These can be signs of a medical emergency, including postpartum psychosis. Do not wait — call your provider, call/text 988, or go to the ER:
Getting help does not make you a weak mother or a failing one. It makes you a mother taking care of herself so she can take care of her baby.
And while you build your care team, keep doing the gentle, foundational things that help — nourishing food, rest, and support. Emily Montague's food-first recovery method is here whenever you're ready.
Start with your OB-GYN, midwife, primary care doctor, or your baby's pediatrician — all can help or refer you. Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773) and the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-852-6262) are free resources.
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, feeling out of touch with reality, hallucinations, or several days without any sleep are emergencies. Call or text 988 or go to an emergency room immediately.
Emily is a chef, mother of five and postpartum-recovery educator who revives the 2,000-year-old zuo yuezi ("sitting month") tradition for modern mothers. Her signature, food-first method helps women rebuild after birth and ease postpartum depression — and she now certifies doulas and midwives to cook it for their own clients.
Emily's food-first recovery course, recovery teas and doula & midwife certification live at The Sitting Month. Text Emily and she'll help you find the right starting point.
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