Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression? When to seek help…

Most people have heard of the Baby Blues, and now more people have heard about Postpartum Depression, but there is still a lot of confusion around the differences and when to seek help. Here’s a quick rundown:

With Baby Blues, shortly after birth, once the intensity of the birth experience wears off and the pregnancy hormones come crashing down, up to 80% of birthing people will experience a period of sadness, tearfulness, mood swings, and overwhelm. In the midst of this the mother also feels joy, gratitude, and is generally able to enjoy the experience. This typically begins around 2 days after birth and lasts around 2 weeks, and will dissipate on its own.

Postpartum Depression occurs when those feelings don’t resolve, or they become more intense or severe as time goes on. It can show up as persistent sadness, guilt, anxiety, hopelessness, feeling as though you made a mistake, difficulty bonding with the baby, a negative impact on your ability to function in your daily life, or intrusive thoughts. Postpartum Depression can start anytime within the first year after giving birth - not just the first couple of weeks, and it is treatable with therapy and/or medication.

If you are struggling with this adjustment and feeling like you’re broken, know that you are not alone. Support is available, and reaching out is a loving step for both yourself, and your baby. If you have questions or want to inquire about what therapy is like, please reach out on the “Individual Therapy” Page and we will get you sorted.