Some crying in the early postpartum weeks is normal - what we call the baby blues, which lift on their own within two weeks. But postpartum depression and anxiety are different. According to the CDC, 1 in 8 women experience postpartum depression, and roughly 1 in 6 experience postpartum anxiety. About half of these cases go untreated, and rates of undertreatment are even higher among Black, Hispanic, and lower-income mothers.

Pediatric providers are often the most consistent point of contact for a new mother in the first year. That makes us uniquely positioned to notice, ask, and connect mothers to the support they need.

In your next visit, try:

• Screening with a validated tool. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and PHQ-2/PHQ-9 are brief and well-supported in pediatric settings. The AAP recommends formal screening at the 1, 2, 4, and 6-month well visits.
• Opening the door with empathy. Try, "How are you managing things?" or "A lot of new mothers feel overwhelmed or really down - how is that for you?" Naming the experience reduces shame and makes it easier for her to answer honestly.
• Knowing your handoff. When a mother screens positive or tells you she is struggling, have a referral pathway ready: Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773), her OB, or a behavioral health colleague. The warm handoff is what closes the loop.
• Reinforcing follow-up care. Encourage her to keep her 6-week postpartum visit and ongoing primary care. She is caring for her baby. She deserves care too.

And if she seems fine? Ask anyway. Ask again at the next visit.