Depression
Postpartum depression is NOT the “baby blues” which is typically a few days to two weeks of mild ups and downs and weepiness. It is important to recognize the hallmark symptoms of this condition, as it is often the scapegoat for all postpartum mental health issues. Also of note, depression symptoms may be Bipolar disorder when combined with mania.
You might feel...
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Completely overwhelmed by parenting
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Like you just can't do this
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Regret of having a baby in the first place or fear you made the WRONG decision to have a baby
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Confused as to why this is happening
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Anger or rage toward the baby or others
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Disconnected or numb to what’s happening around you
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You don't feel like yourself anymore
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Headaches, stomach aches or back aches
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Sadness and guilt of missing out on the baby’s first days/weeks/months
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Like a mess, crying nonstop even for no apparent reason
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Fear that you will never be yourself again and things will never get better
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Like you are unworthy of your child
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Unable to eat or eating way too much
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Restless at night and unable to sleep when the baby is sleeping
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Tired all the time and unable to stay awake
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Forgetful, unable to concentrate, or foggy-brained
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Unsafe with yourself or with your baby
