Postpartum Depression Rates More Than Double in the U.S. Over a Decade
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A 2024 study found that rates of postpartum depression among U.S. mothers more than doubled from 2010 to 2021, rising from 9.4% to 19%. The increase is partly attributed to improved screening and diagnosis. Effective treatments, including medication and therapy, are available, and new resources aim to connect patients with support.
Facts First
- Postpartum depression rates more than doubled from 9.4% in 2010 to 19% in 2021.
- Improved screening and diagnosis is a partial cause for the measured increase.
- Common treatments include medication, talk therapy, sleep, and support from family and friends.
- A 10-item questionnaire is a common screening tool used at postpartum checkups.
- New resources like postpartumdepression.org aim to provide support and connect patients with professional help.
What Happened
A 2024 study published in JAMA Network Open found that rates of postpartum depression among U.S. mothers more than doubled over just over a decade, rising from 9.4% in 2010 to 19% in 2021. Researchers attribute part of this measured increase to improved screening and diagnosis. A common screening tool is a 10-item questionnaire often administered at postpartum checkups. Jenna Carberg, a mother from Orlando, Florida, was diagnosed with postpartum depression in 2016 and experienced thoughts of self-harm before recovering after finding the right medication.
Why this Matters to You
If you or someone you know is a new or expecting parent, this trend highlights the importance of being aware of postpartum depression. You may encounter the standard screening questionnaire at a postpartum checkup. Recognizing the signs—which can include lingering sadness, intense despair, anxiety, or loss of interest lasting more than two weeks—could lead to earlier support and treatment. Access to effective treatments, including medication and talk therapy, may become more relevant for a larger number of families.
What's Next
Increased awareness and screening may continue to shape the reported rates of postpartum depression. The medical community is likely to continue using and refining screening tools to identify at-risk individuals. For those seeking help, resources like the online platform postpartumdepression.org aim to provide information and connect patients with professional support. The national suicide and crisis lifeline (988) remains available for immediate assistance.