What is Postpartum Depression?
The birth of a baby can trigger powerful emotions, from excitement to fear and anxiety. But it can also result in something you may not expect — depression. New moms may experience postpartum “baby blues” after childbirth due to the drastic drop in hormones, which commonly include mood swings, crying spells, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. “Baby blues†typically begin within the first two to three days after delivery, and can last for up to two weeks. However, some moms experience a more severe, long-lasting form of depression known as postpartum depression. As a reminder, postpartum depression is not a character flaw or a weakness. Sometimes it’s simply a complication of giving birth.
What are the symptoms of Postpartum Depression?
- Severe mood swings
- Excessive crying
- Difficulty bonding with your babyÂ
- Withdrawing from friends and familyÂ
- Loss of appetite or eating more than usual
- Insomnia
- Intense irritability or anger
- HopelessnessÂ
- Severe panic attacks and anxietyÂ
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicideÂ
When to see a doctor?
If you’re feeling depressed after your baby’s birth, you may feel ashamed to admit it. But if you experience any symptoms of postpartum baby blues or postpartum depression, call your doctor and schedule an appointment. It’s important to call your physician as soon as possible if the signs and symptoms of depression have any of these symptoms:
- Don’t fade after two weeks
- Are getting worse
- Making it hard for you to care for your baby
- Making it hard to complete everyday tasks
- Include thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
Center for Emotional Health offers postpartum depression therapy services. If you or someone you know is experiencing postpartum depression, visit www.cehcharlotte.com or call (704) 237-4240 for more information on our services.