Is My Postpartum Doula Knowledgeable About Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Issues?

This question goes straight to the heart of what it means to be a postpartum doula. The answer is: Yes—your postpartum doula should be knowledgeable about postpartum depression and anxiety. Not as a therapist, but as a compassionate, trained supporter who can recognize the signs, offer non-judgmental presence, and guide you toward the help you need. I'll be honest—this part of the work is sacred and sometimes heavy. I've sat beside mothers who smiled for photos but cried when the house went quiet. I've held space for moms who felt disconnected from their babies, overwhelmed by guilt, or numb in a season they thought would be full of joy. And in those moments, my role isn't to fix. It's to see them. To say, "You're not broken. You're not failing. You're not alone." Every postpartum doula should be trained to recognize the signs of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), including: Persistent sadness or hopelessness Intense anxiety or panic attacks Difficulty bonding with the baby Extreme fatigue, even when rested Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby We are not licensed mental health providers, so we don't diagnose or treat. But we do listen. We do validate. And we do help connect mothers with the right resources—therapists, support groups, psychiatrists, or faith leaders. At Doulagy, this is part of our core training. We carry screening tools, know local referral networks, and partner with organizations that specialize in maternal mental health. But more than that—we create a safe, loving environment where moms feel they can be honest without fear of judgment. Because the truth is, 1 in 7 mothers will experience postpartum depression. And anxiety? It's even more common. These aren't signs of weakness. They're signs that your body, mind, and soul have carried something immense—and now, you need support. I believe healing begins in relationship. That's why I make time in every visit to check in—not just about the baby, but about you. How are you really doing? What do you need today? Who's holding you? And when I sense something deeper is going on, I don't look away. I gently offer resources. I pray with you. I walk with you toward help. So yes—your postpartum doula should be informed, aware, and compassionate when it comes to mental health. Because your heart matters as much as your baby's. And your story isn't over—it's just beginning.