To physicians and other healthcare practitioners:
If you are not asking these questions of each postpartum patient, you do not know how she is feeling.

• Have you had PPD before?

• Do you have a history of depression?

• Are you sleeping okay when your baby sleeps?

• Any changes in your appetite?

• Are you experiencing anxiety or panic?

• Are you afraid to be alone with your baby?

• Do you feel more irritable or angry than usual?

• Are you worried about the way you feel right now?

• What worries you the most about the way you feel?

• Are you afraid you might lose control?

• Are you afraid of the thoughts you are having?

• Do you wonder if you're a bad mother?

• If you are breastfeeding, how important is that to you?

• Do you ever have thoughts about hurting yourself?

• Do you find it hard to make decisions?

• Does your husband know how you are feeling?

• How do you feel about taking medication if it helps you feel better?

• Are there other stressful events that are impacting the way you feel?

• Is there anything you are afraid to tell me, but think I should know?

Tips for professional and family support:

• Do not assume that if she looks good, she is fine.

• Do not tell her it's normal to feel this way after having a baby.

• Do not assume this will get better on its own.

• Do encourage her to get a comprehensive evaluation.

• Do take her concerns seriously.

• Do let her know you are there if she needs you.