Postpartum depression symptoms is a type of clinical depression that can occur after the birth of a child. Almost 6%-20% of women across the world experience this condition and can have severe consequences for the mother and her child.
Postpartum depression symptoms include sadness, anxiety, irritability, frustration, loneliness, and guilt. It can also lead to social isolation and difficulty caring for self or the baby.
Read on to learn more about postpartum depression and how you can identify its warning signs if you or someone you know might be at risk.
Depression
The risk of postpartum depression increases if the mother is diagnosed with clinical depression before or during pregnancy. Depression is a mood disorder that affects a person’s thinking, behavior, and emotions, ranging from mild to severe.
Lack of Energy and Exhaustion
With postpartum depression, you may feel like you’re running on empty. You may feel more tired than usual, even when you sleep enough. You may experience a lack of motivation and an increase in fatigue or exhaustion to the point where it interferes with your daily activities. Fatigue and tiredness can be due to a lack of sleep or insomnia.
Anxiety
With postpartum anxiety, you may feel overly worried or stressed out or have constant uncomfortable thoughts racing through your mind that are difficult to cope with. You may worry that you won’t be able to take care of your baby correctly, or you may feel panicky about your financial ability to raise the baby.
Eating Disorders
While most people associate eating disorders with weight loss, some women experience the opposite and develop what is known as postpartum eating disorders. While some women start gaining weight due to an increased appetite, others may start losing weight due to lack of it.
Irritability and Mood Swings
Postpartum mood swings are prevalent, and they can take many different forms. Some women experience sudden and intense mood swings that go beyond control. Others experience milder swings. Mood swings may be accompanied by episodes of crying or feelings of intense sadness or anxiety.
Difficulty Bonding With Your Newborn Baby
Some women experience postpartum bonding disorder, which refers to difficulty forming an emotional connection with your baby. This condition generally goes away after the first few weeks after giving birth. If it persists, you may need additional support or treatment.
Tiredness and Lack of Sleep
Not being able to sleep is a common symptom of postpartum depression. If you’re having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, you may have insomnia.
Conclusion
Postpartum depression is a typical condition that affects many new mothers. Knowing the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression helps you access the right treatment at an early stage.
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, seek help from your doctor for treatment.