Postpartum depression

“The beast that lingers to steal your joy”

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that can occur during pregnancy or after childbirth. It is common and treatable—and it is not a sign of being a bad parent.

Common symptoms

Symptoms lasting 2 weeks or more may include:

* Persistent sadness, emptiness, or feeling hopeless

* Loss of interest or pleasure

* Severe anxiety, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed

* Difficulty sleeping even when the baby is sleeping

* Changes in appetite or energy

* Difficulty bonding with the baby

* Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or being an inadequate parent

* Trouble concentrating

* Thoughts of death, self-harm, or harming the baby

The “baby blues” are different: mood swings, tearfulness and irritability are very common in the first few days after birth and usually improve within about 2 weeks.

Treatment

Treatment may include counselling/therapy, antidepressant medication, or both, depending on severity. If you are breastfeeding, many antidepressants can be used safely, but the choice should be made with your doctor or pharmacist.

If you’re asking because you or someone who recently gave birth is experiencing symptoms, tell me what symptoms they’re having and how long they’ve been present, and I can help you work out what to do next.