WHAT IS POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION (PPD)?

We specialize in therapy for postpartum depression in OC.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is the depression that sometimes occurs after childbirth. New moms struggling with this may experience mood swings, feelings of depression, sadness, anxiety, emptiness, hopelessness, and persistent worry. While many women sometimes experience the so-called “baby blues,” postpartum depression is a disorder with symptoms that typically last longer and are persistent.

WHAT DOES POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION (PPD) LOOK LIKE?

PPD can rob you of your energy and joy

With postpartum depression, some women report feeling disconnected or even angry with their new baby or their partner. New moms who are suffering from postpartum depression might feel guilty, worthless, and believe they are not being a good mother. Sometimes, they may regret not having energy or motivation and feel like they are struggling to keep up with all of the new demands placed on them.

For some mothers, symptoms may arrive right after childbirth and can last for up to a year post-delivery. While symptoms vary from person to person, below are some common symptoms that are frequently associated with PPD.

WHAT YOU MIGHT BE EXPERIENCING:

• Persistent sadness, anxiety, or anger

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, or irritability

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Changes in appetite

• Feeling tearful or crying more than usual

• Constant doubts about your ability to be a mom or take care of your baby

• Feeling disconnected or distant from your baby

• Lack of energy or feeling easily fatigued

• Isolating from friends and family

• Thoughts about hurting yourself or your baby

• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much