Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more than mere “baby blues”. The term refers to the feelings of depression which begin within the first few weeks or month after childbirth, and persist for several months or more. The symptoms can be debilitating, affecting a mother’s ability to function in daily life and effectively bond with her child.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a condition that sometimes occurs after childbirth, causing a mother to feel intense and prolonged feelings of fatigue, anxiety and sadness. If left untreated, these symptoms can persist for several months or even longer than a year, making it difficult for the new mother to take care of and bond with her child.

What Is Postpartum Depression?

Giving birth is an intense experience, and one that marks a significant change in your life. This can result in some powerful emotions, and not all of those emotions are positive. Anxiety at taking care of a new life, fatigue from the changes in routine, and even depression can all surface in the days and weeks following childbirth.

Postpartum depression is the term used to describe powerful negative feelings and symptoms such as mood swings, crying, anxiety and insomnia that persist for several months after giving birth. These symptoms can occur for many different reasons, including stress, tiredness, trauma or medical issues.

PPD isn’t a sign of weakness or a sign that a child wasn’t wanted. It’s a medical complication that affects many new mothers. Fortunately, it’s a treatable condition, and with the right support, new mothers can take back control of their lives and bond with their baby.

PPD vs. Baby Blues: Key Differences

The term “baby blues” refers to a mild case of low mood or fatigue that occurs shortly after a baby is born. The symptoms of the baby blues typically resolve themselves quickly, and don’t interfere too much with day-to-day life. Postpartum depression is a more serious issue that involves persistent and severe symptoms.

Unlike the baby blues, PPD symptoms can last for a year or longer, if not properly managed. Working with a team of medical professionals and counselors can help you understand the symptoms you’re experiencing and learn how to cope with them. At FHE Health, we offer counseling services, lifestyle support and therapies to help new mothers through this difficult time following childbirth.

Signs and Symptoms of PPD

Symptoms of postpartum depression tend to appear within a few weeks or months of the birth of a child. Some signs to look out for include:

Crying frequently
Finding it difficult to bond with the baby
Withdrawing from family and friends
Severe mood swings
Feeling depressed
Sleeping more than normal
Insomnia
Low energy

Irritability
Anxiety
Panic attacks
Brain fog/difficulty thinking clearly
Feelings of guilt or shame
Intrusive thoughts about self harm
Suicidal ideation

If you’re experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call the Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) for free, confidential support.

Some individuals experience postpartum psychosis in addition to depression. These symptoms are rare, but are something to watch out for. The feelings of confusion, paranoia or obsessive thoughts could lead to harmful behaviors. If you or a new mother in your life is displaying signs of erratic behavior, confusion or mood swings, it’s important to seek professional advice quickly.

Need Help?

Treatment can begin quickly and discreetly, get started now

Risk Factors for PPD

Mothers may be at an increased risk of postpartum depression if they have:

A history of depression, anxiety or other mental health challenges
Previous experience with postpartum depression
Complications during the pregnancy
A pre-term birth

Limited social support
Sleep deprivation
Other stressful life events occurring around the time of the birth
Certain health issues, such as thyroid disorders

Postpartum depression is not the same as the baby blues. Many new mothers experience a low mood in the days following the birth, but find they recover quite quickly. Postpartum depression involves more severe and persistent mood issues.

How PPD Affects Bonding and Daily Life

Postpartum depression can make it difficult for a mother and child to bond effectively. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 8 women in the United States experiences symptoms of postpartum depression. Its impact on parent-child bonding has been studied extensively — women struggling with PPD may experience negative emotions and exhibit behaviors that inhibit bonding.

PPD can make it hard for a mother to take care of herself and her baby. Having support from a partner and family members can reduce the strain, but it’s important to work with a medical professional as well to get the symptoms under control. Speak to your primary care provider or call FHE Health for advice if your symptoms appear to be getting worse, persist for more than a couple of weeks, or are having an impact on your day-to-day life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does postpartum depression go away?

If left untreated, postpartum depression can persist for several months, or even a year or more. For this reason, it’s important to seek professional medical advice if you’re experiencing symptoms of PPD.

What are the key symptoms of PPD?

Postpartum depression involves feelings of low mood or depression that start several weeks after childbirth, and last for a long time. The delayed onset and long duration are what sets PPD apart from the “baby blues” commonly experienced in the first few days after giving birth.

When does postpartum depression start?

Postpartum depression can start at any time within the first year after childbirth. In most cases, symptoms appear within the first few weeks or months following the birth of the baby.

How is postpartum depression treated?

Postpartum depression is treatable. Treatment often combines therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy — with peer support, lifestyle adjustments, and medication when appropriate. As part of our clinical programming, we can work with new mothers to address depression, anxiety, and other challenges that may surface after childbirth.

Get Help to Cope With Postpartum Depression

PPD can be difficult to cope with, but you don’t have to struggle alone. At FHE Health, we provide support for families who are struggling with depression, anxiety, fatigue and other challenges after giving birth. Contact us now to speak to an admissions advisor and learn about our services for mothers living with PPD.