What causes post-partum depression?

• After pregnancy, hormonal changes in a woman’s body may trigger symptoms of depression. In the first 24 hours after childbirth, the amount of certain hormones rapidly drops to the normal, non-pregnant levels. Researchers think this fast change in hormones may lead to depression.
• Other factors that may contribute to post-partum depression include:
• Feeling tired, interrupted sleep, and not getting enough rest can mean that a new mother does not regain her strength for weeks.
• Feeling overwhelmed with a new (or with another) baby or doubting your abilities as a mother.
• Feeling stress from changes in your routine both at home or at work.
• Feelings of loss. Some women feel that they have lost “the woman they were” because of pregnancy. This can be because their bodies have changed, because they are not at work, or because their entire routine has changed.

What are some symptoms of depression?

Any of the following symptoms that last longer than two weeks could be a sign of depression:

• Feeling restless or irritable
• Feeling sad, hopeless, and overwhelmed
• Crying a lot
• Having no energy or motivation
• Eating too little or too much
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Trouble focusing, remembering, or making decisions
• Feeling worthless and guilty
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Withdrawl from friends and family
• Feelings that you cannot care for yourself or your baby

What is the difference between "baby blues" and post-partum depression?

• “Baby blues” typically happen in the days right after childbirth. The symptoms normally go away within a few days to a week. Mood changes such as sadness, crying spells, loss of appetite, and loneliness can all be common for a new mother. The symptoms of the “baby blues” are not severe and do not require treatment.
• Post-partum depression can happen any time within the first year after childbirth. The difference between post-partum depression and “baby blues” is that post-partum depression often affects a woman’s well-being and her ability to function over a long period of time. Post-partum depression needs to be treated by a doctor. Counseling, support groups, or medication might be needed. Consult with your doctor to ensure you get the right treatment.

What can I do to help with symptoms of "baby blues" or post-partum depression?

• Try to get as much rest as you can. Nap when your baby does.
• Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to do everything. Do what you can and leave the rest!
• Ask for help with household chores and night time feedings. Ask your partner to bring the baby to you in bed so you can breastfeed. Have a friend, family member, or neighbor help you in the home for part of the day.
• Talk to your partner, family, and friends about how you are feeling and how they can help.
• Do not spend a lot of time alone. Get dressed and get out of the house! Go for a walk, visit the park, or go shopping.
• Talk to other moms so you can learn from their experiences.

How is depression treated?

• Medication: Your doctor can give you a prescription for an antidepressant if needed. Your doctor will need to see you first to ensure this is the best form of treatment.
• Therapy: Don’t be scared of this word! Therapy can include support groups for other new moms or one-on-one counseling with a specialized therapist or social worker. This treatment works well by itself, or when combined with medication.

What effects can untreated depression have?

• Post-partum depression can affect a mother’s ability to parent. She may lack energy, have trouble concentrating, be irritable, and not be able to meet her child’s needs for love and affection. As a result, she may feel guilty and lose confidence in herself as a mother, which can worsen the depression. Researchers believe that postpartum depression can affect the infant by causing delays in language development, problems with emotional bonding to others, behavioral problems, lower activity levels, sleep problems, and distress.

All moms deserve the chance to enjoy their life and their children. Don’t suffer alone! If you are experiencing signs of depression, tell a loved one and contact your doctor right away.