How is postpartum depression different from the “baby blues”?

The “baby blues” is a term used to describe mild mood changes and feelings of worry, unhappiness, and exhaustion that many women sometimes experience in the first 2 weeks after having a baby. Babies require around-the-clock care, so it’s normal for mothers to feel tired or overwhelmed sometimes. If mood changes and feelings of anxiety or unhappiness are severe, or if they last longer than 2 weeks, a woman may have postpartum depression. Women with postpartum depression generally will not feel better unless they receive treatment.

I myself suffered from severe postpartum depression. After waiting 12 years to have my beautiful baby girl, I felt empty and couldn’t understand why it wasn’t a picture perfect bond with my sweet baby. I mean all the movies show an instantaneous BEAUTIFUL connection with their newborn – WHAT WAS WRONG WITH ME? It wasn’t until I asked for help (3 weeks after she was born) that I started feeling like a mommy and began bonding with my baby girl. You CAN feel better and bond. I have a PMH-C (peri-depression mental health counselor) certification. I am here for you and understand your struggles deeply and intimately. Please reach out for help!