Signs of Postpartum Depression
By Jennifer Mc Mann-Buszka, BSN, WHNP
Q: My baby is 5 weeks old and I sometimes feel sad, anxious and overwhelmed. I feel guilty all the time and wonder is this the way motherhood is suppose to be? I want to feel like myself again - what should I do?
A: Due to major lifestyle changes and fluctuating hormone levels, 80% of new mothers experience feelings of tearfulness, irritability, guilt and anxiety in the first 2 to 3 postpartum months. This is often referred to as the "Baby Blues" and generally starts 2-5 days after birth and typically disappears within 3-4 weeks of delivery.
When these symptoms continue beyond that 3-4 week postpartum period, or symptoms become more severe, you may be suffering from postpartum depression (PPD). It can strike any woman at anytime during the first year after delivery. It is estimated that 1 out of every 8 women suffer with PPD anxiety.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression may include:
- Hopelessness and loss of self-confidence
- Uncontrollable crying, mood swings
- Poor concentration and or confusion (feelings of being in a fog)
- Appetite and sleep disturbances
- Intrusive, repetitive thoughts that disturb or frighten you
- Repetitive behaviors
- Anxiety or panic attacks (feelings of "losing it")
- Withdrawal from normal activities
Postpartum depression symptoms may appear gradually and range from mild to severe and they can last for many months. Treatment options range from self-care, support groups, counseling to psychotherapy and medication. Postpartum depression is a real medical illness and if left untreated, may have long-term effects on you and your baby.
The most severe form of postpartum depression is postpartum psychosis. Postpartum psychosis is very rare, affecting 1-2 in 1000 women. Symptoms include extreme confusion, seeing things or hearing voices that are not there, refusing to eat, cannot sleep (even when exhausted) thoughts of harming self or baby, distrusting other people or wanting to sleep all day. Postpartum psychosis requires immediate emergency care.
If you think you may have postpartum depression, do not hesitate to talk to your primary care physician. If you feel that you are not being listened to, don't give up. There is hope and help available. You are not alone - you are not to blame. Postpartum depression is temporary and treatable.
The Beaumont Parenting Program and Tree of Hope Foundation have partnered to create a safe and supportive environment for families dealing with postpartum adjustment issues. To talk to someone who understands, please call the Parenting Program at 248-551-1455. For support group locations closest to you, go to www.treeof hopefoundation.org.
Jennifer Mc Mann-Buszka BSN, WHNP is the Parenting Program Coordinator for Beaumont Hospital, Grosse Pointe. She can be reached at 248-995-5457 or
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The Beaumont Parenting Program is a member of The Family Center's Association of Professionals.
The Family Center, a 501(c) 3, non-profit organization, serves as the community's centralized hub for information, resources and referral for families and professionals.
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