What is postpartum depression?

When a baby is born, you can experience many emotions, from excitement and joy to fear and anxiety, but it can also lead into something you might not expect: depression. 

Most new mothers experience “baby blues” after childbirth, which commonly includes mood swings, crying spells, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Baby blues usually begins within the first two to three days after delivery and may last up for two weeks.

However, there is another more severe, long-lasting form of depression known as postpartum depression (PPD) that affects up to 15% of women (Cleveland Clinic, 2022). Sometimes called peripartum depression because it can start during pregnancy and continue after childbirth. It may last for months if not longer. There is no single cause of postpartum depression, but genetics, physical changes, and emotional issues may play a role. Studies show that having a family history of postpartum depression – especially if it was major – increases the risk of experiencing postpartum depression. The physical changes, such as the dramatic drop in some hormones can leave you feeling tired, sluggish and depressed. When you’re sleep deprived and overwhelmed, you may have trouble handling even minor problems. You may be anxious about your ability to care for a newborn. You may struggle with self-esteem, sense identity, and loss of control.

Studies show that new fathers can experience postpartum depression too. The fathers most at risk for this are young, have a history of depression, experience relationship problems, or are struggling financially. They may feel sad, tired, overwhelmed, anxious, or have changes in their usual eating and sleeping patterns. Postpartum depression in fathers – sometimes called paternal postpartum depression – can have the same negative effect on partner relationships and child development as postpartum depression in mothers have.

Symptoms:

• Depressed mood or severe mood swings

• Excessive crying

• Difficulty bonding with your baby

• Withdrawing from loved ones

• Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual

• Inability to sleep or sleeping too much

• Overwhelming fatigue or loss of energy

• Less interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy

• Intense irritability and anger

• Fear that you’re not a good mother

• Hopelessness

• Not feeling “good enough” (feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, or inadequacy)

• Reduced ability to think clearly, concentrate, or make decisions

• Restlessness

• Severe anxiety and panic attacks

• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

If you or your partner are experiencing any of these symptoms during your partner’s pregnancy or after your child’s birth, talk to a professional. Blue Sage Wellness has nurses specialised in dealing with postpartum that can help you. Even if you are reluctant or embarrassed to admit it, it is important that you call and schedule an appointment. Especially if these symptoms don’t fade after two weeks, are getting worse, make it hard for you to care for your baby and complete everyday tasks, and include thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.

On the other hand, people with depression may not recognize or admit they are depressed. They may not be aware of signs and symptoms of depression. If you suspect that a friend or loved one has post depression, help them seek medical attention immediately. Do not wait and hope for improvement.

Postpartum depression is not a character flaw or a weakness. Sometimes, it’s simply a complication of giving birth. If you suspect you have postpartum depression, prompt treatment can help you manage your symptoms and help you bond with your baby.