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Feb 22, 2011 - 10:54 AM
Posted by Lindsey O'Connell
Category Parenting, Postpartum Care

Postpartum Depression or Baby Blues?

I’ve seen so many new mothers put extremely high expectations on themselves following the birth of their baby. They think they have to do everything “perfectly” when it comes to motherhood and don’t often give themselves any grace as a new mom. Those expectations, coupled with isolation and hormonal changes, can lead to emotions many women have never before experienced.

Baby Blues

Often, people refer to postpartum emotional changes as the “baby blues,” which can affect 80-85% of new mothers. For most, baby blues are typically most identifiable within the first few weeks following birth. You might feel yourself become sad and tearful in situations that normally wouldn’t faze you. You may feel inadequate, exhausted and overwhelmed. These are all normal feelings for a new mom to experience.

In my experience, the best thing any new mom can do for their own well-being and her baby’s is to spend some time away from the house and with other new parents. There is so much comfort in getting to know other moms who are experiencing some of the same feelings or concerns that you are. You’ll build friendships and feel like others out there understand the same emotions you’re going through. This alone can create positive change in your role and emotions as a new mother.

Postpartum Depression

For some women, their experience is much more intense. Postpartum depression can affect up to 20% of new moms. Moms who experience postpartum depression can be filled with anxiety and panic, feel overwhelmed and unable to cope, and fear hurting their baby or themselves. Postpartum depression lasts longer than baby blues, but it can be treated. You don’t have to go through it alone.

I’ve provided a list of some books about postpartum depression that may be helpful. However, if you think you or a loved one might be experiencing postpartum depression, I always recommend you seek help immediately from a healthcare provider who can direct you to further help from a psychologist or support group.

Books

The Mother-to-Mother Postpartum Depression Support Book Poulin, S. Penguin, 2006

Beyond the Blues Bennett S, Indman P. Moodswings Press, 2006

Postpartum Depression for Dummies Bennett S, Codey M. Wiley, 2007

This Isn’t What I Expected: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Kleiman K, Raskin VD. Hyperion, 1994

The Postpartum Husband: Practical Solutions for living with Postpartum Depression Kleiman K. Xlibris, 2001

Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression Shields B. Hyperion, 2005

-Lindsey O'Connell, CLA, Certified Postpartum Doula, Services Coordinator at DayOne

April 16, 2012 - 9:19:28 PM PDT

Adam Ghilchritst says…

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