What is the difference between the so-called ‘baby blues’ and postpartum depression?

My clients often ask me how to tell the difference between the two, so I thought I would write a little something about it.

Around 7 out of every 10 women experience some form of the baby blues, a condition that affects most mothers approximately two to three days after giving birth. These feelings are a result of hormonal changes, and the emotions associated with baby blues usually subside within a couple of weeks without any treatment. If these feelings last longer than two weeks — if you continue to feel low and exhausted, and if your feelings prevent you from functioning normally or caring for your baby, you may be experiencing postpartum depression.

What is postpartum depression?

If you or your spouse or partner are experiencing postpartum depression, you are not alone! One out of every 10 women and one out of 4 men develop postpartum depression. It is characterized by several symptoms which last longer than a few weeks after the birth of their baby. It often begins within the first month, but can occur at any time during the 12 months following childbirth.

If you have postpartum depression, you may be experiencing some of the following symptoms:

• Crying

• Feeling exhausted (even right after you wake up) and unmotivated

• Avoiding family and friends

• Feeling worthless and hopeless

• Losing interest in your hobbies or other usually pleasurable activities

• Difficulty falling and staying asleep or sleeping too much

• Feeling empty

• Feeling guilt and shame (“I am not happy” or “I don’t love my baby enough”)

• Feeling sad

• Getting easily overwhelmed and anxious

• Lashing out in anger or being easily irritated for no apparent reason

• Lacking appetite or overeating

• Having difficulty making decisions

• Questioning whether you can handle the responsibility of a new baby

• Feeling fearful for your baby, as well as fearing to be alone or to leave the house

• Having persistent thoughts about hurting yourself, your baby, or others

Some of the risk factors for postpartum depression include:

• A difficult childbirth experience

• Lack of sleep

• Baby Colic

• Lack of support from family and friends

• A history of mental illness in the family

• Physical illness

How long does postpartum depression last?

Postpartum depression can last a few weeks or for months – but the sooner you get professional help, the quicker you are likely to recover.

Fathers are not immune!

You may be surprised to learn that fathers, too, can be affected by postpartum depression. According to some studies, in the United States as many as 1 in 4 to 1 in 10 new fathers experience postpartum depression. They may experience stress about the increased financial responsibility of having a child. They may feel burdened and tired or feel “left out” because they aren’t having their “normal” sexual relationship with their partner. Oftentimes dads with postpartum depression become irritable and angry, experience feelings of sadness, or become emotionally withdrawn. Unfortunately, many men never seek support or help during this stressful time.

How is postpartum depression treated?

You are not alone! Postpartum depression can affect anyone regardless of their education, socioeconomic status, culture, or religion. There is no reason to feel ashamed if you are experiencing those feelings. It is not your fault, and your condition is treatable! The most important step you can take is to contact a healthcare professional. Treatment may include individual, family, and/or group therapy. Medications that have been shown to help alleviate the symptoms are also available.

The information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is no substitute for a comprehensive evaluation by a licensed mental health professional.