Having a baby is a huge adjustment that no parent can completely prepare for, even if it’s your second or third child. Both women and men can suffer from depression symptoms in the weeks and months after their baby is born. Postpartum depression (PPD) can look very different from one person to the next. Many people with this condition may self-isolate or feel ashamed of what they’re going through. It’s important to recognize that PPD isn’t anyone’s fault. It’s something many new parents experience, and you can get through it with the right treatment. Opening up about how you feel with someone you trust or a health care provider is the first step toward getting the help you need.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common symptoms of postpartum depression and how to recognize them in yourself or someone you love.

How can I recognize postpartum depression in myself or a loved one?

It’s hard to tell if another person has postpartum depression without asking them how they’re feeling and what they’re experiencing. It can come with a wide range of moods, from sadness and worthlessness to shame, anger and anxiety, and sudden mood changes. Some of the biggest signs that you may have PPD are difficulty bonding with your baby and worrying that you’re not a good parent. Low energy, withdrawal from social connections, and changes in sleep and appetite are also common. However, other than having a hard time bonding with your baby, these can also be a regular part of postpartum feelings. In severe cases of PPD, you may have thoughts of death, suicide, or harming yourself or your baby. 

11 symptoms of postpartum depression

Without treatment, postpartum depression can last several weeks and months or more. It’s important to know that experiencing PPD doesn’t make you a bad parent, and it’s not your fault. Talking with other new moms or dads who’ve had this experience can help you feel less alone. Seeking the care you need right now is one of the best things you can do for yourself and for your child.

The following are symptoms of postpartum depression to look out for:

• Trouble bonding with your baby — New parents with PPD may not want to spend time with their baby. Feeding and caring for their baby may be difficult, or they may have negative feelings toward their baby.
• Fear that you’re not a good parent — Postpartum depression can make you worry that you’re not a good parent. Remember that this is a symptom of the condition and not a fact. It’s OK to feel exhausted and depressed with a new baby. Many new parents have felt this way, and with the right treatment, it will pass. 
• Low energy or fatigue — If you’re a new mom, your body is recovering from nine months of pregnancy and childbirth. Preparing for a new baby takes a physical and mental toll. When you add PPD, it’s natural to feel drained or exhausted. Rest and relaxation are crucial parts of the recovery process.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in things you usually enjoy — You may temporarily lose interest in things you used to enjoy, and that’s OK. Be gentle with yourself and try to find activities you can focus on to stay grounded and present.
• Restlessness, anxiety or panic attacks — It can be hard to relax and stay calm with a new baby. There’s so much you can’t prepare for, and caring for a tiny human who can’t talk yet is a huge responsibility. Try using mantras or affirmations to remind yourself that you don’t need to be constantly worrying or doing something to keep things under control. 
• Low moods and negative feelings — Hopelessness, inadequacy, shame, guilt, anger and irritability are common feelings among new moms and dads with PPD. Mindfulness activities can help you recognize your feelings as temporary states that will eventually pass.
• Brain fog — Like other types of depression, difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating or making decisions is common with PPD. Give yourself time to get through difficult tasks and take breaks when you need to.
• Severe mood swings or crying spells — Sadness, crying and rapid mood changes can be symptoms of PPD. Try to give yourself some grace and use activities like journaling or visualization to express your feelings. 
• Self-isolation — The feelings associated with PPD can make it difficult to connect with others. It may seem easier to self-isolate, but you need supportive relationships with people who understand. Support groups can be a great resource.
• Changes in appetite or sleeping habits — Postpartum depression affects different people in different ways. Some might sleep too much, and others may be up all night. The same goes for appetite. Do your best to stick to a daily routine and a balanced diet. 
• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby — Thoughts of death, suicide, or harming yourself or your baby are signs that you need treatment for PPD. These thoughts probably aren’t representative of you or your character, and there are treatments that can help. 

Find relief from postpartum depression at Lightfully

Postpartum depression is overwhelming to most new parents who experience it, and the majority will eventually see a light at the end of the tunnel. Your friends and family, your doctor, a therapist and other new parents are all people who can provide different kinds of support. Leaning on them during this time doesn’t make you a bad parent; it makes you human. 

At Lightfully, we’ve helped many new parents manage postpartum depression that’s affecting their ability to function. We treat our clients as people first, not symptoms or disorders. We recognize that people dealing with this condition need highly personalized treatment to create a foundation for lasting mental wellness. We use our Precision Care Model to create unique treatment experiences for each person in our care.

Do you need help finding treatment for postpartum depression? Reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team or contact us with any questions. Let’s talk about what’s possible for you and your family.