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Hospital & homeGuide information (research draft)

Emotional changes and bonding

Many new parents feel tearful, anxious or overwhelmed in the first days. Bonding can take time. If low mood or anxiety lasts, gets worse or feels severe, ask for help. You do not need to wait.

Most important

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

Get help right away. Call or text 988, or call 911 in an emergency.

Warning signs that need care right away

Important to know

  • Severe symptoms or safety concerns should not wait two weeks.
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988.
Help me ask about this
What may happen
  • Crying, mood swings, worry or trouble sleeping.
  • Not feeling an instant bond with your baby.
Why

Hormone changes, lack of sleep and a major life change all affect mood.

What varies

Short-lived 'baby blues' are different from postpartum depression, which needs treatment.

Questions to ask

  • Is how I am feeling something to get checked?
  • Who can I talk to about my mood?

Prototype draft. Not yet clinically reviewed. Your own care team's instructions come first. About this app

Sources

Summaries are drafted from these public sources. No hospital has endorsed this app.

  • Office on Women's Health · National mental-health supplement

    Postpartum Depression(opens in a new tab)
    Published
    Date not stated
    Checked
    2026-10-24
    Access
    Read from a search index copy

    Applies to: National or state guidance, not a hospital procedure.

    Limitations: Do not require waiting two weeks when symptoms are severe or safety concerns exist.

  • Henry Ford Health · Detroit-area system

    Mental Health During and After Pregnancy(opens in a new tab)
    Published
    Date not stated
    Checked
    2026-10-24
    Access
    Page read in full

    Applies to: Published by one health system. Procedures at your hospital may differ.

    Limitations: Program-specific eligibility; not a crisis service.

  • University of Michigan Health · Ann Arbor / regional supplemental source

    Pregnancy to Parent Wellness Resources(opens in a new tab)
    Published
    Date not stated
    Checked
    2026-10-24
    Access
    Page read in full

    Applies to: Published by one health system. Procedures at your hospital may differ.

    Limitations: Some outbound links have migrated; not Detroit hospital policy.