Phone Lines
Talking about PPD can be the first step toward effective treatment. In Washington State, phone lines are available for support, general information and referral to a healthcare professional that will best meet your needs.

Postpartum Support International of Washington
1-888-404-7763
PSI of WA provides warm, understanding, effective and private support and professional referrals for new mothers and their family members. A volunteer who has experienced and fully recovered from PPD will call you back within 24 hours.
www.ppmdsupport.com

Parent Trust Family Help Line
1-800-932-HOPE (1-800-932-4673)
When you call the Family Help line at Parent Trust for Washington Children, a family coach will listen to your concerns, offer support and connect you with resources in your local community.
www.parenttrust.org

24-Hour PPD HOPE Line
1-877-PPD-HOPE (1-877-773-4673)
The national PPD Hope Line is available any time, day or night for help and assistance.
www.ppdhope.com

Support Groups
Support groups and self-help groups are effective. A woman may join a support group in addition to getting help from a physician or other healthcare professional.

Support groups can help women with mild, moderate, or severe symptoms of PPD. Support groups are comprised of women experiencing similar problems, led by knowledgeable professionals and volunteers who listen with understanding and compassion.

Click here for a list of PPD support groups in Washington. If your organization has a support group that you would like to see listed, please contact us at: ccf@ccf.wa.gov.

Medication
A range of safe medications, such as antidepressants, can be prescribed to treat postpartum depression. They are effective and pose no threat to nursing mothers.

Remember, PPD is not uncommon. Early and effective treatment can lead to recovery. You can discuss medication with an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN), or a family practice physician.

Counseling / Psychotherapy Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is another word for "talk therapy." In this type of treatment, women meet with mental health care specialists to talk about their depression, mood swings and other feelings caused by their postpartum depression. Therapists teach patients skills to manage their feelings and cope with their problems.