Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a type of depression that happens after having a baby. It affects up to 15% of people. People with postpartum depression experience emotional highs and lows, frequent crying, fatigue, guilt, anxiety and may have trouble caring for their baby. Postpartum depression can be treated with medication and counseling.

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that happens after someone gives birth. Postpartum depression doesn’t just affect the birthing person. It can affect surrogates and adoptive parents, too. People experience hormonal, physical, emotional, financial and social changes after having a baby. These changes can cause symptoms of postpartum depression.

If you have postpartum depression, know that you are not alone, it’s not your fault and that help is out there. Your doctor can manage your symptoms and help you feel better.

What are the types of Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum blues or baby blues

If you’re experiencing the baby blues, you will have frequent, prolonged bouts of crying for no apparent reason, sadness and anxiety. The condition usually begins in the first week (one to four days) after delivery. Although the experience is unpleasant, the condition usually subsides within two weeks without treatment.

Postpartum depression

You may experience alternating highs and lows, frequent crying, irritability and fatigue, as well as feelings of guilt, anxiety and inability to care for your baby or yourself. Symptoms range from mild to severe and may appear within a week of delivery or gradually, even up to a year later. Although symptoms can last several months, treatment with psychotherapy or antidepressants is very effective.

Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is an extremely severe form of postpartum depression and requires emergency medical attention. The symptoms generally occur quickly after delivery and are severe, lasting for a few weeks to several months. Symptoms include severe agitation, confusion, feelings of hopelessness and shame, insomnia, paranoia, delusions or hallucinations, hyperactivity, rapid speech or mania. Postpartum psychosis requires immediate medical attention since there is an increased risk of suicide and risk of harm to the baby. Treatment will usually include hospitalization, psychotherapy and medication.

What are the symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

You may have postpartum depression if you experience some of the following:

• Feeling sad, worthless, hopeless or guilty.
• Worrying excessively or feeling on edge.
• Loss of interest in hobbies or things you once enjoyed.
• Changes in appetite or not eating.
• Loss of energy and motivation.
• Trouble sleeping or wanting to sleep all the time.
• Crying for no reason or excessively.
• Difficulty thinking or focusing.
• Thoughts of suicide or wishing you were dead.
• Lack of interest in your baby or feeling anxious around your baby.
• Thoughts of hurting your baby or feeling like you don’t want your baby

How to handle Postpartum Depression?

Here are some things you can do to help cope with postpartum depression:

• Join a support group for new parents.
• Try to eat healthily and find time for exercise.
• Prioritize rest for yourself.
• Go out with friends or talk to them on the phone.
• Find time for self-care and doing things you enjoy, like reading or other hobbies.
• Get help with household chores or errands.

What happens if postpartum depression isn’t treated?

Untreated postpartum depression is dangerous and affects you, your baby and those who love you. It can make you:

• Feel like you have no energy.
• Moody.
• Believe you can’t take care of your baby.
• Unable to focus or make decisions.
• Have thoughts of hurting yourself.

Can postpartum depression be prevented?

Here are some tips that can help prevent postpartum depression:

• Be realistic about your expectations for yourself and your baby.
• Limit visitors when you first go home.
• Ask for help — let others know how they can help you.
• Sleep or rest when your baby sleeps.
• Exercise — take a walk and get out of the house for a break.
• Keep in touch with your family and friends — don’t isolate yourself.
• Foster your relationship with your partner — make time for each other.
• Expect some good days and some bad days.

How can I help someone with postpartum depression?

Here are some ways you can help:

• Know the signs of depression and anxiety and urge your friend or partner to seek medical care.
• Be a good listener. Let them know you’re there to listen and help.
• Offer to help them with daily tasks like cleaning and running errands.
• Offer to help watch their baby while they sleep or rest.
• Encourage them to seek help from a therapist or other mental health provider. Offer to set up an appointment or go with them as a support person.