The Baby Blues - Is This Normal?

Many moms experience mood swings and crying period after childbirth. For some moms the symptoms fade quickly and are known as the baby blues.  For others, symptoms are more severe and are longer-lasting, and may be postpartum depression.  If you are asking "Is this Normal?" about feelings you or another mom are experiencing we are here to help!
 
There are several things that help aid anyone recovering from childbirth. You should make healthy lifestyle choices (avoid alcohol which is a depressant), set realistic expectations, make time for yourself and avoid isolation. But what if you are doing all these things and still just don't feel like yourself?

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How to tell the Difference Between Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression

Parents struggle with the combination of physical, emotional and lifestyle changes. Some moms juggle a combination of these along with a change in hormones and brain chemistry.  If you are suffering from depression, it's not your fault and there's nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. According to Postpartum Support International 1 in 8 women suffer from postpartum depression.

Since it is a medical condition, a positive attitude or just trying harder to be happy can't "fix" depression. ​

How can you tell the difference between the blues and depression?  The signs or symptoms vary depending on the type of depression and most people experience a combination of them.

​Baby blues -70-80% of moms have these symptoms:  Mood swings, anxiety, sadness, fear, irritability, crying, decreased concentration, and trouble sleeping.  Also included are general feelings of being weak, overwhelmed, overtired and alone.

Postpartum depression:  Loss of appetite, insomnia, intense irritability/anger, overwhelming fatigue (no energy or motivation), lack of joy in life, feelings of shame, guilt or inadequacy, severe mood swings, difficulty bonding with your baby, withdrawal from family and friends, and thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.  These symptoms can occur any time within the first 3 months after delivery.

What To Do If You Are Struggling

If you think you may have postpartum depression, treatment can help you manage your symptoms and get back to enjoying life and your baby again. We learned that left untreated, postpartum depression may last for a year or more. If you have depression symptoms and they are getting worse, don't fade after two weeks or make it hard for you to take care of your baby or yourself, please seek help from your doctor. 

​Only a medical professional can determine if what you are experiencing is postpartum depression and help you find a treatment plan.