Perinatal and Postpartum Mood Disorders
In the early days after giving birth, it’s completely normal to feel as if you’re riding an emotional rollercoaster. Sleep is in short supply, hormones are in flux, and the new demands of family life can leave you feeling overwhelmed. You may be worried, anxious, exhausted or weepy. And that’s okay. Most new moms experience the “baby blues” to some degree.
Is it the baby blues or postpartum depression?
But how long should you expect to feel this way? How do you know if what you’re experiencing is just the “baby blues” or if it’s something more serious, like postpartum depression? When is it time to reach out for help?
Give yourself a little time:
Everyone is different, but for many new moms, the baby blues subside about two weeks after delivery. If you experience troubling postpartum symptoms beyond those first couple of weeks, or if symptoms are getting worse and making it difficult to take care of your baby, talk to your doctor.
At any point, if you have a suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming your baby, do not wait! This is an important warning sign and requires immediate action. Ask your partner or a loved one for help taking care of the baby, and contact your doctor or call 911.
What are the signs of postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression is a serious medical condition that can last for months, impacting not only you, but your baby and your loved ones, as well.
Symptoms of postpartum depression include:
- Feeling sad, depressed and/or crying a lot
- Increased irritability, feeling “on edge”
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Having intrusive thoughts
- Diminished appetite or overeating
- Inability to fall asleep even when baby is sleeping
- Poor concentration, “brain fog”
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or incompetence
- Worrying constantly about the well-being of the baby
- Feeling numb and void of feelings, no attachment or interest in the baby
- Feeling inadequate to cope with a new infant
- Hopelessness, thoughts of harming yourself or the baby
- Frequent headaches, stomachaches, feeling of racing heart, constant fatigue
Support for Moms with Baby Blues
Every mom needs exceptional care and support. This is especially true if you’re experiencing baby blues - that strange mix of sadness, anxiety or depression during your pregnancy, or in the weeks and months after you give birth.
Despite this, many people, even some doctors and close family members, may not understand what you’re going through. This can lead to additional feelings of frustration and stress. Reach out to a support group, or talk to your physician - you are not alone.
Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMAD)
PMAD is much stronger than baby blues. Rather than general anxiety, you may also experience depression, post-traumatic stress, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or bipolar disorder. Signs to look out for include:
- Feeling guilty or worthless
- Excessive irritability, anger or agitation
- Fear of being left alone with the baby
- Anxiety and panic attacks
Doctors are not certain exactly what causes PMAD but it’s often linked to hormonal changes after delivery, as well as feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or an overall sense of losing your identity.
If you or a loved one is experiencing PMAD, it’s important to get help from a professional counselor or behavioral health specialist. In most cases, doctors will recommend a combination of the following treatments:
- Antidepressants
- Individual and group counseling
- Peer support
To better understand the level of care you’ll need, talk with your doctor about your symptoms, or reach out to a support group.
The most severe type of PMAD is postpartum psychosis. It’s considered a psychiatric emergency since it puts women at an increased risk of suicide and harming their infant.
Get help immediately if you’re having any violent thoughts toward yourself or your child. Other signs of postpartum psychosis to look out for, include:
- Insomnia
- Rapid mood swings
- Poor judgment
- Delusions of infant death
- Auditory hallucinations
- Extreme agitation
- Hyperactivity
Moms with postpartum psychosis must receive immediate treatment with antipsychotic drugs and mood stabilizers. If the condition doesn’t improve with medication, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is often recommended.
If the baby blues are getting you down, call your health care provider today and begin your journey to better and brighter days.
You are not alone in your postpartum journey.
Postpartum depression is common, affecting about 1 in 7 new mothers. Mothers with a history of depression or anxiety disorders are at higher risk.
Most of the time, depressive episodes happen within the first 1-4 months after childbirth. However, postpartum depression may occur at any point up to 12 months after delivery.
Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It shows you are willing to do what it takes to get better — for yourself, your baby and your family.