Treatment Options

Treatment for PMD is based on:

• how severe the depression or anxiety is and what symptoms you have
• whether you have had mental health issues or treatment in the past
• your needs and preferences
• how long the wait time is for services and what type of service is needed
• your situation

Treatments vary and include counselling, support, medication, therapy, and self-care.

It is important to talk to your health care practioner about your symptoms so that they you can decide together about the best treatment for you:

Mild to moderate PMD may respond to counselling and increased support, often found through joining a support group or through help from her partner and family.

Severe episodes usually require antidepressant medication prescribed by the woman’s doctor along with support and counselling.

If you would like more information about treatment and referral options, see Community Resources.

The sooner treatment can begin the better.
Parents with PMD can be successfully treated and recover.
Without treatment, symptoms can get worse.