Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Usually occurs within the first 2 or 3 months postpartum; though onset may occur immediately after delivery. There is a recognizable difference between “baby blues” and postpartum depression as depression lasts longer than two weeks after delivery).

There are many possible symptoms of postpartum depression, such as:

• Change of appetite
• Problems with sleep
• Irritability, often at you partner or other family member
• Mood swings 
• Loss of energy
• Unexplainable body pains (i.e., headaches, stomachache, etc.)
• Excessive worry or feeling panicky 
• Crying often
• Hard to concentrate or remember things
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Feelings of guilt or  shame 
• Not wanting to do things that you used to enjoy

Maybe even…

• Thoughts of death 
• Thoughts or fear of harming your baby 
• Not feeling bonded with your baby

If you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms, please seek help from your healthcare provider or a mental health therapist right away!

Information complied from Mayo Clinic (http://www.webmd.com/depression/postpartum-depression/understanding-post...), Web MD (http://www.webmd.com/depression/postpartum-depression/understanding-post... ) and Inland Empire Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative Clinician’s Guide to Assessing to Postpartum Depression (PPD).