The Baby Blues & Postpartum Depression

Sad, angry or cranky after the birth? About 80 percent of new moms experience the baby blues. This sadness or moodiness is caused by the hormonal changes of childbirth and is considered normal.

Signs of the baby blues may include:

• Sadness
• Crying more than usual
• Irritability
• Feeling anxious
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Mood swings
• Trouble sleeping
• Trouble concentrating

What to Do When You’re Feeling Blue

It can be hard to experience extreme emotions while caring for a child. When you are feeling blue:

Tell someone how you’re feeling

A little understanding can go a long way.

Connect with other new moms

Find a local support group or talk to others in the 7 Cups Parenting & Pregnancy Support group.

Ask for help

Support and assistance can lighten your emotional and physical load.

Practice self-care

Get as much sleep as you can. Take a walk. Have someone watch the baby, so you can get out of the house for a short time. Avoid alcohol and drug abuse.

The Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression: What’s the Difference?

The baby blues are normal and should go away on their own. Postpartum depression (PPD) is a medical condition that’s important to treat. But often, PPD goes unrecognized or confused with the baby blues. There are two important differences:

Longevity

The baby blues are temporary. Symptoms usually peak 3 to 5 days after giving birth. Postpartum depression lasts. If you’re experiencing symptoms after 2 weeks postpartum, it could be postpartum depression.

Severity

Postpartum has more severe symptoms. You may have PPD if the symptoms interfere with your ability to handle your daily tasks.

Watch this video for more on understanding the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression.

Signs of Postpartum Depression

If you experience any of the following symptoms, talk to a health professional immediately:

• Depressed mood
• Excessive crying
• Extreme irritability and anger
• Trouble bonding with your baby
• Isolating yourself from family and friends
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in sleep, either insomnia or sleeping too much
• Lack of interest in usual activities
• Severe anxiety and/or panic attacks
• Feeling worthless, ashamed or guilty
• Feeling that you’re a bad mother
• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
• Repeated thoughts of death or suicide