What happens when depression is left untreated?
A. Women can remain untreated because they don’t realize they have depression, or because they have been discouraged from getting treatment. But women with postpartum depression are not alone! At one out of eight women, this is the most common complication of childbearing. Without treatment, depression usually lasts 6-9 months. Women with untreated postpartum depression can experience ongoing difficulties with work and relationships. They may have problems taking care of things at home, getting along with others, doing their jobs, or doing things that used to be done easily. Other mothers have described a difficulty being able to enjoy their new baby, fears of harming their infant or not being able to meet the needs of their child/children.
