Mood swings and feeling blue are not uncommon in new mothers during the first six weeks after a baby is born, but for some mothers these depressed feelings don’t go away. These ongoing feeling can be a sign of a more severe, longer term condition known as postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is not your fault, nor is it a character flaw or a weakness. It is a complication that can occur after giving birth. Symptoms of postpartum depression vary and can range from mild to severe. It is important for both members of a couple to know the signs and provide support.
Postpartum “baby blues” may last a few days to a up to around six weeks after birth. Some symptoms include,
- Mood swings
- Feeling anxious
- Feeling sad
- Being irritable
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Crying
- Difficulty concentrating
- Appetite problems
- Insomnia
Postpartum depression may be seen as the “baby blues” initially but symptoms are more intense and last beyond the six week time frame with little or no signs of abating. They can interfere with taking care of yourself, your child and other daily tasks. Symptoms can develop from a few weeks to months after giving birth.
- Feeling depressed
- Severe mood swings
- Extreme crying
- Feeling disconnected to your newborn
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Eating much less or eating much more than usual
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Severe fatigue or loss of energy
- Less interest and pleasure in activities you previously enjoyed
- Extreme irritability and anger
- Fearing you are not a good mother
- Feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy
- Less able to think clearly, concentrate or make decisions
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
I focus on helping new parents after the birth of their baby. Many new mothers and fathers go through a challenging time after their baby is born and may not realize that they need help coping, especially if this is their first child. If untreated, postpartum depression can last many months or longer. There is help for you so if you believe you are suffering with this contact our office so we can help.