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Postpartum Depression Treatment in Dartmouth, MA

Postpartum depression affects 1 in 7 new mothers — and is treatable. You are not alone and you are not a bad parent.

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About Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental health condition that can develop after childbirth. It is not the "baby blues" — which is a mild, brief period of emotional adjustment after delivery. PPD is more intense, lasts longer, and requires professional treatment.

PPD can also affect fathers and non-birthing partners. DLH Consulting provides compassionate, non-judgmental evaluation and treatment for postpartum mood conditions.

Common Symptoms

  • Depressed mood most of the day
  • Crying more than usual
  • Difficulty bonding with your baby
  • Withdrawing from family and friends
  • Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual
  • Inability to sleep or sleeping too much
  • Overwhelming fatigue
  • Intense irritability or anger
  • Fear that you are not a good mother
  • Feelings of worthlessness or shame
  • Difficulty thinking clearly or making decisions

Treatment Approaches

  • Antidepressant medication (safe options during breastfeeding)
  • Therapy coordination
  • Partner and family support guidance
  • Medication monitoring and adjustment

Get Started Today

Our intake coordinator will reach out within 2 business days of receiving your completed intake forms.

Complete Intake Forms (774) 929-7420

Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: 516 Hawthorn St., Dartmouth, MA
Telehealth: Available statewide

Insurance We Accept

We accept most major plans including:

Types of Postpartum Depression

Baby Blues

Mild mood swings, crying, and anxiety in the first 2 weeks after birth. Normal and temporary — resolves on its own.

Postpartum Depression

Persistent depression, anxiety, and exhaustion after childbirth that interferes with daily functioning and caring for your baby.

Postpartum Anxiety

Excessive worry, racing thoughts, and physical anxiety symptoms following childbirth — often overlooked.

Postpartum OCD

Intrusive, unwanted thoughts about harm coming to the baby, causing significant distress.

Postpartum Psychosis

A rare but serious condition requiring immediate emergency care — involving hallucinations, delusions, and confusion after delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have postpartum depression or just the baby blues?

Baby blues are mild, begin within 2-3 days of delivery, and resolve within 2 weeks. Postpartum depression is more severe, lasts longer than 2 weeks, and significantly interferes with your ability to function and care for your baby. If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks or are severe, seek evaluation.

Can I take antidepressants while breastfeeding?

Yes. Several antidepressants are considered safe during breastfeeding, with low transfer to breast milk. Your provider will discuss the safest options for you and your baby. Untreated PPD also poses risks — to both you and your baby's development.

Can fathers or partners get postpartum depression?

Yes. Paternal postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 10 fathers. It tends to occur somewhat later (3-6 months after birth) and may present more as irritability and withdrawal than sadness.

How quickly does postpartum depression treatment work?

Most people see improvement within 4-6 weeks of starting antidepressant medication. Therapy can provide faster symptomatic relief. With treatment, most people with PPD fully recover.

Is postpartum depression covered by insurance?

Yes. Postpartum depression is covered as a mental health condition by all major insurance plans, including MassHealth and Medicare.

Also Treating

DLH Consulting treats a full range of mental health conditions. Learn more about other conditions we commonly treat:

AnxietyDepressionADHDPTSDBipolar DisorderOCDPanic DisorderSleep DisordersTraumaMood Disorders

Ready to Get Help for Postpartum Depression?

Our board-certified PMHNPs are accepting new patients in Dartmouth, MA — in-person and via telehealth statewide.