Postpartum Depression vs. baby blues

by Analisa Jayasekera, M.a., Lamft

You just had a new baby and maybe you have found yourself asking, what's the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression? Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed and not like yourself.  Perhaps you are concerned about someone you love who just had a baby and seems to be struggling.  Read on to learn the difference between baby blues and PPD and don't hesitate to reach out for help if you or someone you love needs it. 

Baby Blues: Around 80 percent of new mothers experience the baby blues in the first two weeks postpartum. The symptoms are mild in nature and include periods of tearfulness and moodiness, but your outlook overall is positive. If you have the baby blues, it should resolve on its own in the 2-3 weeks after giving birth. If you are experiencing more sadness than good times or just don't feel like yourself, don't hesitate to reach out for help.

Postpartum Depression and other Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD):  As many as 1 in 7 moms experience Postpartum Depression or another PMAD.  They symptoms can start anytime in pregnancy, in the first year postpartum, or longer if left untreated. Some of the symptoms include:

-overwhelming sadness / tearfulness

-changes in appetite

-irritability, anger, rage

-difficulty bonding with your baby

-overly protective of your baby

-troubles sleeping

-anxiety | panic | fear

-doubting your ability to be a good mother

-intrusive thoughts

To learn even more about PMADs, click here. 

The good news is that PMADs are very treatable! It is the most common medical complication to giving birth that women experience.  Find relief by getting help today. Analisa Jayasekera, MA, LAMFT, works with women experiencing PMADs and their partners, too.  Call for a free 20 minute phone consultation today to see how she can help support you.  

651.605.6022 | analisa@liminalspacecounseling.com