While giving birth to a baby is an exciting time for most families, it can bring unique challenges as well. In fact, many women can suffer postpartum depression symptoms. By learning more about the signs of postpartum depression and what to expect, you can take the first step toward getting help.
What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is more than just the “baby blues.” With postpartum depression, moms experience a long-lasting form of depression that typically starts during pregnancy or after giving birth. Postpartum depression symptoms can make it difficult to bond with your baby, and you may withdraw from your loved ones.
While some of the early signs of postpartum depression may be similar to baby blues, this disorder is fundamentally different. Baby blues begin in the first two to three days after giving birth, and these symptoms may last for a couple of weeks. Baby blues may involve sleep problems, crying spells, anxiety, and mood swings.
In comparison, postpartum depression lasts longer and is more severe. The signs of postpartum depression can even transform into a rare mood disorder known as postpartum psychosis.
If you have postpartum psychosis, you might feel lost, paranoid, or confused. Sometimes, individuals hallucinate, have sleep problems, or make an attempt to harm themselves or their baby. Obsessive thoughts and excessive energy are also common with postpartum psychosis.
Postpartum Depression Symptoms
Bringing home a new baby is a significant transition, and there are some symptoms of postpartum depression you should watch out for.
1. Fatigue and Insomnia
If you are suffering from postpartum depression symptoms, you might feel overwhelmingly tired. You may also feel like your energy is completely depleted. Other than being unable to sleep, you may also find yourself sleeping too much.
2. Bonding Issues
Bonding issues are common among women who suffer from postpartum depression. You may feel unable to really connect or form a close bond with your baby. At the same time, you may also withdraw from relationships with your family and friends.
3. Feeling Hopeless
When you have postpartum depression, you may feel hopeless or ashamed. Other women feel angry, restless, or worthless.
4. Anxiety and Panic Attacks
In some cases, women will experience panic attacks and anxiety when they have postpartum depression. They may also feel inadequate or fear that they are an unfit mother.
5. Change in Habits
If you are dealing with postpartum depression signs, you may notice a change in your eating habits. You may eat more often than normal or lose your appetite. This can lead to sudden weight gain or weight loss.
Likewise, you may lose interest in activities you previously enjoyed. Even when you have the time to do your favorite hobby or visit a friend, you may feel unable to do anything.
6. Depression
Feeling depressed is one of the most common signs of postpartum depression. You may also go through severe mood swings or cry too much.
7. Thoughts of Suicide
Sometimes, women will have recurring thoughts of suicide or death. They may think about harming themselves or their baby.
8. Problems Thinking Clearly
Often, moms will struggle to think clearly. They may have difficulties making decisions or concentrating on specific things.
Get Help for Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression symptoms are common. While they may make it difficult to enjoy a normal life, there are treatments and therapies available to help. Without the proper treatment, postpartum depression can last for months or longer.
If you or a loved one is suffering from the signs of postpartum depression, Las Encinas Hospital is here for your support.
To learn more about our services and how we can help, visit our website today.
