Women have been found to carry a high risk of developing postpartum depression regardless of their age, race, ethnicity, culture or education. Signs and symptoms of the mental disorder can vary from one woman to another. Experts advise the women to visit a doctor if their symptoms last longer than two weeks.

Main symptoms of postpartum depression include: losing interest or pleasure or interest in things including sex, feeling of worthlessness and a number of doubts on own ability, especially to become a good mother and thinking of harming herself or even the baby.

Women who live in vulnerable conditions such as an environment that lacks physical or emotional support, family history of depression or mental illness, past history of depression are more likely to develop postpartum depression as compared to their counterparts.

Women who exhibit the symptoms of the mental disorder are suggested to visit a doctor or licensed mental health service provider, such as a registered counselor, clinical psychologist, or psychiatrist, before their condition deteriorates. If the symptoms of the disorder become severe, the patients may have to take anti-depressants or go for special psychotherapy sessions. So women are advised to opt for early treatment and diagnoses.