Postpartum Depression Defined

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DO I HAVE POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION?

The journey to motherhood is not always an easy one and becoming a new mother will certainly come with some difficulties. So, how do you know what is a normal part of becoming a new parent and when you should seek help?

Below is a starting point to help you understand what postpartum depression is and some of its symptoms.

We are here to help, mama. Get in touch to talk through your feelings and symptoms – from there, we can connect you with a mom mentor and introduce you to the best resources in the community.

If any of the following sound like what you are experiencing, please reach out to us at our warm line: 843-410-3585 or email: contact@ppdsupport.org.

WHAT IS POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, postpartum depression is a mood disorder that can affect women after childbirth. Mothers with postpartum depression experience feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that may make it difficult for them to complete daily care activities for themselves or for others.

To date, postpartum depression does not have a single known cause, but likely results from a combination of physical and emotional factors. It is important to know that postpartum depression does not occur because of something a mother does or does not do.

Postpartum depression affects about 20% of mothers and can occur any time during the first year postpartum.

Some of the more common symptoms you may experience include:

  • Anxiety

  • Excessive crying

  • Fatigue or sleeplessness

  • Agitation/rage

  • Hopelessness

  • Intrusive/negative thoughts

  • Suicidal thoughts (ex. “This baby would be better off without me.”)

  • Racing thoughts

  • OCD (ex. rigid timing/tracking of feedings or naps)

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In some extreme cases, mothers may also experience psychosis and mania

On the extreme end of the spectrum, these symptoms only affect 2% of women experiencing postpartum depression. Symptoms will appear in the first few days postpartum and may include.

  • Auditory hallucinations

  • Paranoia

  • Bizarre thoughts to harm baby or self

Psychosis requires immediate attention by medical professionals. Please call 911 if you experience any of these symptoms.

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