How to Tell if It’s Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression?
Maybe you just had a baby, and you’re noticing something doesn’t feel right. You’ve read about celebrities who had babies and instantly fell head over heels in love. But that hasn’t been your experience at all.
Everyone said you’d be exhausted and emotional those first weeks after your baby’s arrival. But now you’re starting to panic, wondering if having a baby was a big mistake. You may be afraid people will see you as a failure, or that your baby deserves a different kind of mother: someone better, more confident and more maternal.
Motherhood is hard, and you’re not alone in this experience. However, it’s important to discern whether you’re going through the so-called “baby blues” or postpartum depression. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the signs of postpartum depression (PPD), how it differs from the blues, and more.
Signs You’re Experiencing the Baby Blues
Feeling anything other than joy after having a baby can be a lonely experience. But up to 80 percent of women experience a phase of feeling blue after welcoming a new baby into their family. Here are some symptoms of this common postpartum phase.
Uncontrollable crying or weepiness
Emotional ups and downs
Irritability
Fatigue
Anxiety
Poor concentration
When my son was about four days old, I distinctly remember driving home from a doctor’s appointment and bursting into tears. I had no idea why I was crying, but I couldn’t control it.
Although unpleasant, this postpartum crying and sadness tend to go away within two to three weeks after birth. You may experience this due to hormonal changes, recovery from the birth process, exhaustion and coming to terms with this huge life transition. All these feelings are incredibly normal.
Is it Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression and Anxiety?
But what if your postpartum blues last longer than two to three weeks? How do you know if you’re dealing with something more like postpartum depression or anxiety?
If you’re trying to discern between postpartum blues vs depression, there are two main aspects you need to consider: the duration and the severity of your symptoms. Here’s how to tell if your blues are actually the symptoms of postpartum depression.
The Duration of Your Symptoms
These symptoms may look a lot like the blues at first. However, if your symptoms are still lingering after around three weeks, you may be experiencing something more serious.
If you don’t notice an improvement in your symptoms within two to three weeks, it may be time to seek postpartum counselling or support. Postpartum depression can last for up to 12 months after you’ve had your baby, so it’s worth getting the help you need as soon as possible.
The Severity of Your Symptoms
Another difference between postpartum blues and depression is the severity of your symptoms. Here are some signs you may be experiencing PPD.
Your symptoms have begun to impact your daily functioning.
You’re having difficulty sleeping, even when the baby sleeps.
You’re struggling to eat or take proper care of your body.
You’re feeling disconnected from your partner.
You’re struggling to bond with your baby.
You’ve started isolating yourself from friends and family.
Feelings of guilt, sadness, or hopelessness have started to consume your thoughts.
If you notice the severity of your symptoms coupled with a duration longer than three weeks, it’s time to seek help. Luckily, there are many ways to get the support you need, so you don’t have to deal with this on your own.
What to Do if You’re Worried about Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
It’s important to know that both postpartum anxiety (PPA) and PPD are more common than you think. In fact, they affect approximately 15 percent of the population.
If you think you may be at risk of developing PPA or PPD, please let your healthcare providers (e.g., your OB, family physician, midwife, or social worker) know that you are struggling. They can help find you the support you need.
From there, postpartum counselling is an excellent service to consider. Professionals who specialize in this condition, like a postpartum depression therapist, can walk with you through these challenges. Their services are designed to provide the support you need to work through this challenging phase and move toward recovery.
Get the Support You Need from Postpartum Therapy
The life transition of having a new baby can bring up many feelings. Whether you’re a first-time mom, this is your second or third child, or you've become a parent through adoption or surrogacy, babies bring huge changes to your relationships and routines.
If you’re struggling or have questions about how to access postpartum support in Toronto, feel free to contact Midtown Toronto Therapy today. It’d be our pleasure to offer a free 15-minute phone consultation, discuss your concerns and ensure you get the help you need.
