Postpartum depression is a serious mood disorder experienced by women after giving birth. This complex disorder can shatter mothers' minds, bodies and spirits and end their dreams of what they expected motherhood to be like. Health professionals estimate that between 15 and 20% of women who have recently given birth will be affected by postpartum depression (Stone, 2008). 700,000 new mothers develop postpartum depression each year (Veng & Mcloskey, 2007). Postpartum depression doesn't just affect moms. This debilitating disease also affects family members. These can be husbands, brothers and even extended family. Research shows that postpartum depression affects the newborn and that the newborn is at increased risk for behavioral problems and developmental delays (Wisner, 2002). It is essential to know that postpartum depression can affect anyone. It has nothing to do with how strong a mother is or how well prepared she is for the arrival of her baby. Postpartum depression crosses all boundaries and it doesn't matter if you are richer or poorer. It can affect anyone, and for this reason there has been a tremendous amount of publicity and research compared to years past. Some of the stigma associated with postpartum depression has disappeared, but it still exists and many mothers are afraid to say they have this condition. The good news is that with a huge amount of media attention, comes awareness, and awareness is the initial process for diagnosing and treating new moms before this turns into something worse. Postpartum depression, if left untreated, can quickly worsen and affect everyone the depressed mom comes into contact with. Education is key when it comes to knowing… middle of paper… hours of pregnancy” (Babyzone, n.d.). These work by restoring the balance of chemicals in the brain. One of the reasons it is critical to seek treatment right away is because the medicine can take 2-3 weeks to start working. It is vital that the mother is diagnosed immediately so that the symptoms do not worsen. Postpartum depression is a common and highly treatable disorder. Education is key for both the affected family members and the patient. It is a disorder that crosses all boundaries and is a disease that many mothers are ashamed of having. There is a feeling of shame and guilt that accompanies this disease. However, once a mother recognizes a problem and seeks care and support from others, positive change and a better appreciation for the child and life occurs. Despair is replaced by hope and excitement for the future.