Why Do I Feel Depressed After Giving Birth?

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, you may be displaying a few signs of a depressive mood after giving birth. The birth of a newborn can cause many strong emotions, such as joy and excitement, but also fear and anxiety. The baby blues are a common phenomenon that many new moms experience after giving birth. They may feel sad, anxious, and have problems sleeping. These symptoms usually pass after about two weeks. However, when the symptoms are long-lasting, it can cause depression, and this is called a postpartum depression. Although there may be no need to worry, it may be helpful to plan a visit to your doctor.

Based on your answers, you may be displaying several signs of a depression related to giving birth. It may be useful to plan a visit to a mental health professional, don’t be embarrassed to seek help. After giving birth, mothers may experience the baby blues, which is very common. They may feel moody, cry often, and have eat/sleep problems. When the symptoms are long-lasting, it can be a sign of postpartum depression. A postpartum depression can impair your ability to care for your baby and interfere with daily functioning. With the right help you will feel better quickly, and 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. However, in some cases the symptoms may continue. Make sure to always follow your doctor’s advices carefully.