What is postpartum depression?
Having a baby is a huge life change, and the postpartum period can be an overwhelming experience for many women. Postpartum depression (PPD) is more than just the baby blues. It is a mood disorder that can occur after childbirth. Postpartum depression is relatively common, affecting 1 in 8 new mothers. It often starts within the first month after delivery but can occur up to a year after childbirth.
Caring for a new baby can be challenging, and many mothers may feel overwhelmed when bringing their babies home. Some moms may have postpartum depression symptoms but feel guilty or ashamed to seek help. If you can relate, it is not your fault or caused by anything you did. You are not alone in struggling with adjusting to life with a new baby. Understanding the symptoms of postpartum depression allows you to seek help and get the support you need.
Symptoms of postpartum depression
Symptoms of postpartum depression include:
- Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
- Difficulty concentrating, focusing, remembering things or making decisions
- Eating or sleeping more or less than usual
- Feeling irritable, angry, moody or lashing out
- Feeling restless, fidgeting or unable to sit still
- Feeling withdrawn from loved ones
- Feelings of anxiety, despair, sadness or hopelessness
- Feelings of guilt, shame, pessimism or worthlessness
- Frequent crying
- Inability to experience joyful feelings
- Losing interest in things you once enjoyed
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
When to see a doctor
If you are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression that last more than two weeks, you should talk to your doctor. Also, talk to your doctor if your symptoms prevent you from going about your daily routine.
Seek urgent medical care if you have severe symptoms or thoughts of harming yourself, your baby or others. If your medical provider is not immediately available, call 911 or contact one of the following national resources:
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1.833.TLC.MAMA (1.833.852.6262). Dial 711 first if you are hearing impaired
- Postpartum Support International Helpline: Call or text “help” to 1.800.944.4773
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (or 711, then 988 if you are hearing impaired)
How long does postpartum depression last?
Women can experience postpartum depression very differently. For some women, symptoms can last for a few months, but for a small percentage of women, postpartum depression can last for years. Seeking treatment will help you manage symptoms and improve your mental health more effectively than if you wait for symptoms to go away on their own.
How is postpartum depression diagnosed?
There is no specific test for diagnosing postpartum depression. Your healthcare provider will assess you during your postpartum visit, typically scheduled two or three weeks after birth, to screen for depression and provide timely support.
They may use a depression screening tool or ask questions to evaluate your symptoms and your baby's well-being. Being open and honest will help them accurately understand your feelings and determine whether they indicate postpartum depression or are part of typical adjustments. Other treatable causes of depression, such as hypothyroidism, may need to be ruled out with blood tests.
Remember, your provider is there to support your health and well-being. You're not alone in this journey, and your provider is committed to walking this path with you. There is no judgment in seeking help, only care and understanding.
