Post-Partum Depression in Washington, DC
What is postpartum depression? Postpartum depression involves feelings of anxiety and sadness that are extreme or interfere with your ability to properly care for your family or yourself. Having the “baby blues” for a short time after giving birth is common, but postpartum depression can be severe and last longer than two weeks. Fortunately, simple treatments can help you feel like yourself once again.
What are the symptoms of post partum depression
If any of the following symptoms last longer than several weeks, you may have postpartum depression:
- A depressed mood that doesn’t go away
- Severe mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or anger
- Excessive crying
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Insomnia or restlessness
- Loss of appetite or eating more than usual
- Extreme fatigue
- Hopelessness, worthlessness, guilt, or shame
- Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed
You might also experience a reduced ability to think clearly or have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.
What causes postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression often results from multiple factors. Hormone fluctuations, chemical changes within your brain, and lack of sleep likely play roles. So might stress, changes in your physical appearance, and lack of free time or social support.
Factors that increase your risk of postpartum depression include having a weak support system, relationship problems, a personal or family history of depression or bipolar disorder, financial problems, having multiple births, or difficulty breastfeeding.
How is postpartum depression diagnosed?
To diagnose postpartum depression, your provider reviews your medical history and asks questions about your symptoms.
