Many new mothers experience the “baby blues” for a couple of weeks after giving birth—this often includes anxiety, crying, difficulty concentrating, irritability, mood swings, reduced appetite, sadness, and trouble sleeping. But if your symptoms are especially severe or persist for longer than two weeks, you might have what’s known as postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression has numerous potential causes. With regard to physical causes, the sudden drop in estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones that occurs after giving birth can cause a new mother to feel depressed. Genetics also play a role, since having a family history of postpartum depression can increase a woman’s risk of experiencing the condition. With regard to emotional causes, feeling anxious or overwhelmed about caring for a newborn can lead to postpartum depression, as can struggling with self-esteem and sense of identity.
You may have an increased risk of developing postpartum depression if:
- You’re feeling stressed (for example, due to financial problems or issues with your significant other).
- You don’t have a strong support system.
- Your baby was born with health problems or special needs.
- You gave birth to multiple babies.
- You’re having trouble breastfeeding
- You have a personal or family history of depression or bipolar disorder.
Keep in mind that having one or more of these risk factors simply increases your chances of experiencing postpartum depression—some women have multiple risk factors but don’t develop depression, while others become depressed without having any known risk factors.
Are You Struggling With Postpartum Depression?
If you think you might have postpartum depression, it’s important that you don’t delay seeking the help you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of the compassionate therapists on our team. We have extensive experience treating postpartum depression, and we’ll draw on this background to provide you with personalized care recommendations.