Postpartum depression is one of the most common perinatal mental health conditions, yet it is still surrounded by stigma and silence. Many women who experience it feel ashamed, think they are “bad mothers,” or are afraid that something will be taken away from them if they ask for help. This article is here to say clearly: postpartum depression is a medical condition, it is not your fault, and it has treatment.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mood disorder that appears after childbirth, usually within the first weeks or months, though it can arise up to a year after the birth. It differs from the “baby blues” — a brief period of emotional sensitivity and tearfulness that many women experience in the first days after birth — in that it is more intense, longer-lasting, and significantly affects daily functioning.
It is estimated that between 10% and 20% of women develop postpartum depression. This makes it one of the most common complications of the postpartum period — yet it often goes undetected and untreated.
Symptoms of postpartum depression
Symptoms of postpartum depression can include: persistent sadness or low mood, loss of interest in things that previously brought pleasure, exhaustion that goes beyond normal new parent tiredness, difficulty bonding with the baby, intrusive thoughts about harm coming to the baby (or to oneself), feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, difficulty making decisions, changes in appetite or sleep beyond what is caused by the baby, and in more severe cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
It is important to note that postpartum depression does not always look like what we might imagine. Not all women cry all the time or feel sad in an obvious way. Some experience irritability, emotional numbness, or anxiety as the predominant symptoms. If something does not feel right, it is worth consulting a professional.
When to ask for help
You should seek help if symptoms persist for more than two weeks, if they are significantly affecting your ability to care for yourself or your baby, or if you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. In the latter case, seek help urgently.
You do not need to wait until things get worse. The sooner you seek support, the sooner you will begin to feel better. As the World Health Organization states, perinatal mental health requires urgent attention and accessible treatment.
Treatment for postpartum depression
Postpartum depression responds well to treatment. Depending on its severity, treatment may include psychological therapy (especially cognitive-behavioural therapy or other evidence-based approaches), medication, or a combination of both. Support from the social environment — partner, family, community — also plays an important role in recovery.
If you think you may be experiencing postpartum depression, please reach out. You are not alone, and you deserve support.
If you would like professional support, you can learn more about my psychological support in postpartum or read about matrescence and becoming a mother.