Do I Have Postpartum Depression?

Do you experience depressed mood or severe mood swings?

Do you experience excessive crying?

Do you have difficulty bonding with your baby?

Are you withdrawing from family and friends?

Do you experience a loss of appetite or are you eating much more than usual?

Do you experience an inability to sleep (insomnia) or are you sleeping too much?

Do you experience a loss of energy?

Do you experience a reduced interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy?

Do you experience intense irritability and anger?

Do you fear that you're not a good mother?

Do you experience hopelessness?

Do you have feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt or inadequacy?

Do you experience diminished ability to think clearly, concentrate or make decisions?

Do you experience restlessness?

Do you experience severe anxiety and panic attacks?

Do you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby?

Do you experience recurrent thoughts of death or suicide?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you suffer from postpartum depression, although you may be displaying a few signs related to it. The birth of a baby can cause many powerful emotions, from positive ones (excitement) to negative ones (fear and anxiety). It can also cause depression in some people. Many new moms experience baby blues after childbirth, in which they may feel anxious, cry often, and have difficulties sleeping. Usually baby blues begin a few days after delivery and can last for up to two weeks. But when the symptoms are more severe and long-lasting it may be a sign of postpartum depression. If you are not sure about your symptoms, you should visit your doctor.

Based on your answers, you may be displaying several symptoms related to postpartum depression. It may be useful to plan a visit to a mental health professional. Postpartum depression may be mistaken for baby blues, but the difference is that postpartum depression causes more severe and long-lasting symptoms. It may even impair your ability to care for your baby and interfere with daily functioning. New fathers can also experience postpartum depression. If you are feeling depressed after your baby’s birth, it’s important to seek medical advice. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed, the condition is not a weakness. With the right help you will be able to bond with your little one.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have postpartum depression. It may be of high importance to seek medical support. There is no single cause for the condition, but physical and emotional problems may play a role. You may feel sad or overly tired, overwhelmed and anxious, or experience changes in usual eating and sleeping patterns. Treatment and recovery time may vary, depending on your symptoms and needs. The condition is often treated with psychotherapy or medication, or both. With the right treatment, symptoms usually improve, although in some cases the symptoms may continue. Make sure to always follow your doctor’s advices carefully.