Postpartum Depression vs.

the Baby Blues:

Knowing When to Seek Help
Childbirth is one of the most challenging experiences of life. It's also one of the
most rewarding. Either way, it changes your body's chemical mix, creating what
for some are unexpected emotions. It's best to be prepared for these—and to
know when it'll pass, and when to get help.

Anxiety, sadness, and other negative emotions are super common after all
pregnancies. These feelings are typically called the “baby blues,” and they're
completely normal and (happily) temporary. Remember, your body has
undergone massive hormonal changes. You will not feel this way forever. In most
cases, you’ll be back to your old self within a period of weeks.

But if these emotional states persist or increase in intensity, it may be time to

seek professional help. Far from feeling embarrassed or ashamed, be proud that
you're being proactive in your treatment. After all, your baby needs his or her
mother to be healthy and happy.
But when is the right time to seek help? This resource will help you to spot the
different symptoms associated with the baby blues (which will pass) and
postpartum depression (which lasts longer). Symptoms vary among women—
and among pregnancies. When in doubt, speak to your healthcare provider or a
postnatal specialist.

Plunging into those Baby Blues!

The baby blues can feel terrifying. After all the excitement and anticipation
of welcoming your new baby into the world, a sudden flurry of negative
emotions can easily confuse and overwhelm a new mother. If this describes you,
don’t worry. You are not alone—not by a long shot. In fact, a whopping 85% of
women suffer the baby blues to some degree, usually within four or five days of
giving birth. It is perfectly normal, and usually subsides on its own in two weeks
or so.

During this period, you may find yourself experiencing odd mood swings. Little
things that never bothered you before may trigger bouts of weeping or
sadness. Maybe you snap at your husband—as if you were in labor again! Maybe
your appetite changed: you're craving a steak... but you're a vegetarian.
Whatever you do, don't blame yourself. Feeling sad or weepy doesn't mean you
love child any less. It doesn't mean you'll be a bad mother. And it's not going to
last forever!

Your body has done something remarkable—it has created your beautiful baby.
To accommodate this, it undergoes rapid changes, both during and after birth.
As the level of estrogen drops after childbirth, it is normal to experience some
turbulence. This is made worse by lack of sleep, which newborn infants are
known to cause!

These feelings will pass and the excitement and joy of raising a child will make
you forget all about this rocky patch. To help ease the baby blues quicker, follow
the simple strategies in our pregnancy and parenting course.

Recognizing Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is often mistaken for the baby blues. But

it's more serious, and it won't go away on its own.
Around one in nine women are known to
experience postpartum depression. Since
many women feel ashamed to admit
they're struggling, the number might
actually be higher. As with the baby blues,
postpartum depression is also normal—
and not a sign of the kind of mother you'll
be. This condition can affect anyone.

If you have suffered a recent trauma in

your life (such as the death of a loved one)
or are experiencing financial or relationship
strain, you're more likely to develop
postpartum depression. Teenage
pregnancy and/or a preexisting history of
depression or bipolar disorder are also
linked with higher risk.

Whatever the situation, you're not at fault.

If you experience any of
the symptoms associated with the baby
blues intensely and for a prolonged
period (longer than three weeks), never be
afraid to reach out for help.

Postpartum depression is
typically characterized by feelings of
worthlessness and guilt, and/or a fear of
being a bad mother or being unable to take
care of your baby. Remember, these
feelings are not true, and they will pass.
If you worry that you are overreacting, ask yourself one simple question. Does it
make you happy to fulfill little tasks for your baby, like pulling up his blue booties
or tucking her into her adorable onesie? No? You might be suffering from
postpartum depression. You deserve to experience all the joy a new baby brings.
With treatment, you will.

In some cases, untreated postpartum depression can lead to worsened side

effects; it can even pose a danger to you and your child. Negative feelings toward
your baby or thoughts of harming him or her are signs you require immediate
help. Panic attacks, hallucinations, and/or overwhelming sadness, as well as an
irrational belief that your child would be better off without you are also serious
indicators.

Always dial 911 if you feel suicidal or are in need of immediate assistance. Call
1.800 273 TALK at any hour for someone to talk to about how you are feeling. If
you spot any of the symptoms of postpartum depression in yourself or your
partner, speak to your healthcare provider or a postnatal therapist as soon as
possible. Do not assume they will pass, and do not feel embarrassed to seek help.

To see more symptoms of postpartum depression, and to find advice and

resources for recovery, view the Topics Page for our Courses.
It is also possible to develop postpartum OCD, postpartum PTSD, or postpartum
psychosis (though these are much rarer). These conditions present similar
symptoms to postpartum depression, and require immediate recognition and
treatment. To learn about the symptoms and treatment options for these
conditions, visit the Mother Care sections in our course.

Recognizing the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression
is the first step towards getting better. Don’t suffer in silence. These feelings are
normal, and with the right help and support, you’ll feel better in no time.

To learn more about topics related to becoming a new mother and parenting
tips, visit our Course Topics page today.

You’re going to be a great parent!