Giving birth is not easy, and this is a universally accepted fact. Most women experience sudden, intense waves of sadness and grief after becoming a mother. It’s a difficult time but they are able to overcome it.
For some, these feelings just never go away. They stretch for weeks, months, and even years – until these emotions are all that they can feel. A postpartum depression therapist from LunaJoy can be particularly beneficial during this time.
However, if you’re a new mother, it’s first important to understand whether you’re going through baby blues or postpartum depression. Let’s discuss their differences below!
Table of Contents
What Are Baby Blues?
The baby blues are feelings of sadness, worry, or moodiness that some mothers experience after having a baby. These feelings usually start a few days after giving birth and can last for a couple of weeks.
Baby blues are very common and 50% to 75% of mothers experience it. It happens because of the big changes your body and mind go through after childbirth.
After having a baby, your hormone levels drop quickly, which can affect your mood. You might feel overwhelmed, cry easily, or have trouble sleeping. It’s important to remember that these feelings are normal and usually go away on their own as your body adjusts.
If you’re experiencing the baby blues, try to rest when you can, ask for help from family and friends, and talk about how you’re feeling.
What Is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a serious condition that affects some mothers after giving birth. Unlike the baby blues, which are short-term and mild, postpartum depression is more intense and lasts longer.
It can make a new mom feel extremely sad, hopeless, or disconnected from her baby. Some women can also develop disability. Learn how long can you get disability for postpartum depression here.
This condition can start anytime within the first year after childbirth, but it often begins within the first few weeks. Symptoms include feeling very tired, crying a lot, losing interest in things you usually enjoy, and having trouble bonding with your baby.
Some mothers may also feel anxious, have trouble sleeping, or experience thoughts of harming themselves or their baby. Postpartum depression isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a medical condition that needs treatment.
If you think you have postpartum depression, it’s important to talk to a doctor or therapist. They can help with treatments like therapy, medication, or support groups, which can make a big difference in helping you feel better and enjoy your time with your baby.
Takeaway
All in all, both baby blues and postpartum depression make you feel negative emotions after becoming a mother. Tiredness, loneliness, and hate towards the baby are commonly felt among women.
However, while baby blues are temporary, postpartum depression can last for months and years. It can make you disabled and disconnected from the world.
So, mothers who feel these negative emotions for more than a month should seek professional help immediately.Â