Taking care of a newborn is no easy task. Even the most seasoned moms can find it overwhelming. But if you are feeling anxious or stressed after having your baby, how do you know if it’s the “baby blues” or a more serious condition known as postpartum depression?

The difference between baby blues and postpartum depression

Many women experience the “baby blues” after having their child. 

“Women may feel angry with the new baby, their partners, or their other children,” says Tia Guster, M.D., an obstetrician and gynecologist at Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology in Newnan.  “They also may cry for no clear reason, have trouble sleeping, eating, and making choices, and question whether they can handle caring for the baby.”

The “baby blues" typically last about one to two weeks, and they go away without treatment. But if these symptoms persist or become more intense, it may be a sign of postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression is a major episode of depression that occurs within the first four to six weeks after childbirth. Many women suffering from this condition also report having symptoms of depression during their pregnancy. An estimated 10 to 15 percent of women will experience the condition. 

Symptoms of postpartum depression

“Women with postpartum depression have intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, or despair that prevent them from being able to do their daily tasks,” says Dr. Guster. 

Symptoms include:

• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious
• Showing little interest in the baby
• Feeling worthless
• Loss of appetite
• Lack of energy and motivation to do things
• Frequent crying

How is it treated?

Postpartum depression is treated like any other form of depression.

“We generally recommend patients start taking an antidepressant and we often recommend therapy,” says Dr. Guster. 

Dr. Guster also suggests creating a support system of family and friends who can help take care of the baby while you are trying to take care of yourself.

“I tell moms, ‘If you’re getting overwhelmed, you can call your husband, call your girlfriends, or call your mom,’” says Dr. Guster.  “You can even bring your child to the hospital. It’s really important to call for help.”

Coping with postpartum depression

One of the most important things Dr. Guster wants women to know is they should not feel embarrassed or ashamed of having postpartum depression. 

If you feel like something isn’t right, report it to your doctor or a loved one.

“You’re not alone,” says Dr. Guster. “And you can’t isolate yourself because it only makes the feelings worse. I don’t care if you come to the ER in the middle of the night, just get help.”

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