Postpartum depression is a type of clinical depression. It is very common and can happen to those who have just had a baby, experienced a miscarriage, or had an abortion. According to findapsycologist.org, one in every 8 to 10 mothers develop postpartum depression (PPD). In this article, you will learn what is postpartum depression and its symptoms, how is it different than the baby blues, how long PPD can last, how breastfeeding may protect against PPD, and where to seek help.
What It Does NOT Mean
When you suspect you’re struggling with PPD or have a doctor mention its possibility, almost immediately thoughts of your self-worth, identity, and personality come into your mind.
The feelings you feel regarding having or possibly struggling with PPD are totally valid. However, it should be pointed out that having PPD does NOT stamp you with certain negative qualities! Below are some examples of what having PPD does NOT mean for you!
- Something is wrong with you
- You’re a bad mom
- You are not good enough to care for your baby
- Shame is your new identity
- You’re not as strong as you thought
- This is your new personality – you’ll forever be depressed
According to the American Pregnancy Association, 70-80% of all new mothers experience negative feelings or mood swings after giving birth! Think about it. That’s only 20% away from 100% of all birthing mothers!
According to the American Pregnancy Association, 70-80% of all new mothers experience negative feelings or mood swings after giving birth!
americanpregnancy.org
PPD Symptoms Vs Baby Blue Symptoms
Let’s discuss the baby blues and PPD so there’s no confusion about the two. Both are normal and occur frequently to mothers who give birth. The difference is PPD is more serious and can last much longer than the baby blues.
Symptoms of baby blues can occur for a few minutes to a few hours each day. All symptoms should dissolve after about two weeks of giving birth.
Postpartum depression symptoms mirror that of baby blues. The difference is that the symptoms are much more extreme, can pose a health risk for mom and baby, and can make it difficult for the mother to complete her daily tasks.
Baby Blue Symptoms
These symptoms can come on 4 to 5 days after giving birth. However, in some cases, mothers can experience the baby blues sooner.
- Crying for no reason
- Anxiety
- Mood changes
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Feeling tired
- Sadness
- Trouble focusing
PPD Symptoms
Many of the symptoms of PPD mirror that of baby blues. However, they come on more severely and can pose a more serious threat to the health of mother and baby.
According to Healthline, for postpartum depression to be diagnosed, symptoms will occur every day and may disrupt normal routine. Mothers may have difficulty completing simple daily tasks.
- Severe mood swings
- Excessive crying
- Low self-esteem
- Eating too much or too little (change in appetite)
- Overwhelming fatigue
- Insomnia
- Intense irritability
- Strong anger
- Loss of interest in things normally taken pleasure in
- Panic attacks
- hallucinations
- Thoughts of harming yourself or baby
- Reoccurring thoughts of death or suicide
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How Long Does PPD Last?
When a mother has PPD, how long it lasts depends on some factors. Early treatment and the severity of the depression both play a role in how long symptoms may last. For some mothers, they may struggle with PPD for a year after receiving treatment. I have heard from other mothers that their PPD lasted for 2 or more years! Why is that?
According to Medical News Today, 50% of women who received medical treatment for PPD still experienced symptoms more than 1 year after giving birth.
Additionally, 30% of women who did not receive medical treatment for PPD still experienced symptoms up to 3 years after giving birth!
Here you can see the earlier treatment is given, the faster recovery can be. Keep in mind that the road of healing from PPD may be a slow one. Be sure to take care of yourself during that time. Show kindness to yourself. Don’t speak negative self-talk to yourself while healing, and give yourself lots of patience!
Can Breastfeeding Help Prevent PPD?
The relationship between breastfeeding and postpartum depression is an interesting one. Studies have shown that postpartum depression can cause a mother to stop breastfeeding early. This is because of the toll it takes on the mental health of a mother. Lots of mothers can related to this study!
On the other hand, some studies have also shown that mothers who breastfeed were less likely to experience postpartum depression.
For example, in an article by Hamdan A. and Tamim H. called The relationship between postpartum depression and breastfeeding, found that mothers who breastfed at 2 months postpartum were less likely to experience PPD at 4 months postpartum.
If you are a mother who desires to continue to breastfeed despite experiencing PPD, be encouraged! Use the fact above as a motivator to continue breastfeeding! Also be sure to reach out to those around you who can support you on this journey! Read below to learn how to build your support network around you.
Where To Seek Help
Building Your Support Network Learn how to build your support network around you who will be there for you in hard times!
SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 24/7, 365 days-a-year helpline for individuals and families experiencing mental health or substance abuse crisis. They are a referral and information service. Both English and Spanish speaking assistants are available to talk to. Call them at 1-800-662-4357
Visit www.findapsychologist.org to search for a licensed psychologist.
The Breastfeeding Accelerator Course – Reach your breastfeeding goals and help fight PPD by being equipped with real answers to common breastfeeding challenges! Click here to learn more about the Breastfeeding Accelerator Course!
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Want To Learn More?
To learn more about Postpartum Depression and Breastfeeding, check out the articles below! (More coming soon!)
The Breastfeeding Accelerator Course
Breastfeeding Enchanted – It’s Not As Easy As You Think!
Possible Reasons For Feeling Overly Worried As A Mom – Postpartum Anxiety
The Affects Of Folate Deficiency On Postpartum Health
Vitamin D Deficiency & Postpartum Depression