Unraveling the Differences Between Postpartum Depression and the Baby Blues

Baby Blues

·      Lasts about 7-10 days

·      Characterized by periods of sadness, tearfulness, anxiety, mood changes, and feelings of overwhelm

·      Typically resolves on its own without medical treatment

Postpartum Depression

·      Lasts up to one year after delivery

·      Characterized by feelings of sadness or hopelessness, guilt, anger or irritability; not feeling connected to baby, withdrawing from others, and scary, unwanted thoughts about something bad happening to the baby

·      Typically requires medical treatment which consists of psychotherapy, support groups, and/or medication management 

*If you begin to experience suicidal thoughts or believe you are a danger to yourself or others, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Resources

Postpartum Support International (PSI) Hotline:

1-800-944-4773

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline:

Call or text 1-833-TLC- MAMA

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:

Call or text 988