Having a baby can be one of the happiest times in a mom’s life.
But sometimes new moms can feel very sad for a long time.
This is called perinatal depression or postpartum depression (PPD). Learn the symptoms of postpartum depression so you can get help for yourself or a mom who may have PPD.
- Crying and feeling sad: If a mom feels sad all the time and can't find happy moments, she might have PPD.
- Being super tired: It's normal for new moms to feel tired. But if a mom is always tired, even after sleeping, it might be PPD.
- Trouble connecting with the baby: Sometimes, moms with PPD find it hard to feel close to their babies.
- Eating too much or too little: If a mom's eating changes a lot, it might be a sign.
- Worrying all the time: Moms with PPD might worry a lot, especially about their baby.
- Feeling bad about themselves: Moms might feel like they're not good enough. Or that they're doing things wrong.
- Staying away from friends and family: If a mom doesn't want to be around people she loves, it might be PPD.
- Having a hard time thinking: Moms with PPD might find it tough to make decisions or remember things.
- Thoughts of hurting themselves or the baby: This is very serious. If a mom thinks this, she needs help right away.
- Not liking things they used to like: If a mom doesn't enjoy her favorite things anymore, it might be a sign.
If you or someone you know has any of these PPD symptoms, Your Life Iowa is here for you. Our trusted professionals can connect you to postpartum depression help , whenever you may need it.
Risk factors for postpartum depression
Risk factors for postpartum depression include:
- A change in hormone levels after childbirth.
- Previous experience of depression or anxiety.
- Family history of depression or mental illness.
- Stress involved in caring for a newborn and managing new life changes.
- Having a challenging baby who cries more than usual, is hard to comfort, or whose sleep and hunger needs are irregular and hard to predict.
- Having a baby with special needs (premature birth, medical complications, illness).
- First-time motherhood, very young motherhood, or older motherhood.
- Other emotional stressors, such as the death of a loved one or family problems.
- Financial or employment problems.
- Isolation and lack of social support.
You don't have to go through this alone.