From Sunshine to Shadows: Postpartum Depression

Being a new mom is supposed to be exciting, but some moms experience physical and emotional symptoms that make them feel quite the opposite! Known as the “baby blues,” symptoms like anxiety, crying, and irritability, while troublesome, are common. What is not common, however, is for those symptoms to last or become more intense. If that’s the case, you might have postpartum depression.

What is the difference?

While similar, the symptoms of baby blues and postpartum depression differ greatly.

Symptoms of “Baby Blues”

• Anxiety
• Crying
• Irritability
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Sleep issues

 

Symptoms of “Postpartum Depression”

• Severe anxiety
• Excessive crying
• Difficulty bonding with the baby
• Loss of appetite
• Irrational thoughts
• Insomnia
• Overwhelming fatigue
• Intense irritability
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Recurring thoughts of suicide or harming others

 

The truth about Postpartum Depression.

Anyone can get postpartum depression.

It can affect younger and older moms, regardless of race and ethnicity.

Postpartum depression can also run in families.

If a family member experienced postpartum depression, you may be at a higher risk for developing it.

1 in 8 women will experience postpartum depression symptoms. Read more about postpartum depression at www.cdc.gov

 

How to get help.

Postpartum depression is a treatable medical condition. Call your healthcare provider right away if you think you are experiencing symptoms. Don’t wait! When treated, both mom and baby benefit. You’ll experience improved mood, have more energy and be able to better focus on caring for your baby.

Call 770.904.3717 to schedule an appointment today! For WIC, dial 770.513.9738.

For the Postpartum Depression Support Helpline call or text “Help” to 1.800.944.4773 (For Español dial 971.203.7773)

Download a postpartum depression printable in English and Spanish