What Is Postpartum Depression?

You have likely heard the term “baby blues,” which is unfortunately often used to minimize the difficulties new moms are experiencing. Baby blues affects about 80% of moms. Symptoms usually start 2-3 days after delivery and last less than two weeks. Symptoms include mood swings, crying spells, difficulty sleeping, increased worry, or difficulty concentrating.

For some moms, the symptoms continue past two weeks and the severity increases. This is no longer baby blues. You may be suffering from postpartum depression symptoms or one of the known postpartum anxiety disorders.

While some significant adjustment is expected when you have a baby it should not feel consistently overwhelming or difficult. But for some postpartum women (research suggests around 1 in 10), it does. These mental health struggles can start to affect daily functioning.

Signs of Postpartum Depression:

• Depressed mood or feelings of sadness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed

• Changes in appetite

• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

• Loss of energy or increased fatigue

• Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., inability to sit still, pacing, handwringing) or slowed movements or speech

• Feeling worthless or guilty

• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions

• Crying for “no reason”

• Lack of interest in the baby, not feeling bonded to the baby, or feeling very anxious about/around the baby

• Feelings of being a bad mother

• Thoughts of death or suicide

• Fear of harming your baby or yourself

If at any point you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, we recommend you immediately seek help by having your partner or a loved one take care of your baby and reach out to your doctor or mental health professional, or go to your local crisis services or emergency room. Don’t be afraid to call 911 if needed. 

Signs of Postpartum Anxiety:

• Excessive worry

• Unwanted, intrusive thoughts

• Feelings of dread

• Racing thoughts

• Lack of concentration

• Changes in eating and sleeping patterns

• Dizziness

• Hot flashes

• Rapid heartbeat

• Nausea

These symptoms usually begin within a few weeks of delivery, but for some can start during pregnancy or anytime within the first year of giving birth. Postpartum depression is not a weakness or sign that you have done something wrong. It does not mean you are unfit to be a mother. We often talk with moms who are afraid to be open and honest about what they are experiencing because they worry about judgment from others or that someone might think they are an unfit parent and try and take their baby away. This is simply not the case. The earlier you seek treatment (which can include lifestyle adjustments, counseling, and/or medication) the earlier you can begin to manage your symptoms, bond with your baby, and enjoy your new life.

Fathers and other caregivers can experience similar symptoms as mothers. If you’re a new father and are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, we can help. Similar treatments and supports provided to mothers with postpartum depression can be beneficial in treating postpartum depression in fathers.

Postpartum Psychosis:

*Postpartum psychosis is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate treatment. While the causes of this condition are not fully understood and it can affect anyone, research shows that women with bipolar disorder may be more likely to experience psychosis.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, please know that there are professionals who can help and that your feelings can improve. If you relate to any of the symptoms below please seek treatment immediately. If you are not able to get an in-office appointment with a professional then you should visit your local emergency room.

• Confusion and disorientation

• Obsessive thoughts about your baby

• Hallucinations and delusions

• Sleep disturbances

• Paranoia

• Attempts to harm yourself or your baby

Treatment for postpartum depression & postpartum anxiety in Colorado

If you feel you may be suffering from or developing PPD or PPA, please know that there is hope. Postpartum mood issues are common and treatable. We always encourage talking with your healthcare providers about any mood concerns you experience during pregnancy or the postpartum period. While medication can be helpful and may be necessary for some, counseling is considered one of the best treatments for postpartum depression or anxiety.