Postpartum Depression: What New Mothers Should Know
Written by Dr. Sakshi (MBBS, MD Psychiatry)
The moment of bringing a baby into the world is a transformative one. Many new moms experience joy and excitement. However, after giving birth, some people can experience sadness, fear, or overwhelm. Although these emotions are common, postpartum depression may be the cause if they persist for an extended period of time.
Everything new moms need to know about depression and the postpartum period will be covered in this blog. In the most straightforward manner possible, we will describe the symptoms, causes, and beneficial therapies.
What is Postpartum Depression?
A mental health disorder known as postpartum depression may develop following childbirth. It goes beyond the “baby blues,” which often pass after a few days. A mother’s attitude, energy, and capacity to care for herself or the child are all impacted by this longer-lasting disorder.
What precisely is postpartum depression, then? This kind of depression can start a few weeks after giving birth, but it can also start later. It has been observed in both first-time mothers and those with prior childbearing experiences.
Why Does Postpartum Depression Happen?
After giving birth, a mother’s body and life undergo numerous changes. The body feels exhausted, hormones abruptly decline, and sleep becomes challenging. Lack of support and emotional stress can exacerbate it.
Depression and postpartum are therefore tightly related. Women who have experienced mental health issues in the past, feel isolated, or had a difficult birth are especially vulnerable.
Postpartum Depression Symptoms
The signs of postpartum depression symptoms can be mild or severe. Some common ones include:
- Feeling sad or crying a lot without reason
- Losing interest in things that used to bring joy
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Feeling tired all the time
- Not bonding with the baby
- Feeling hopeless or worthless
- Having scary thoughts about self-harm or hurting the baby
It’s critical to speak with a trusted person if you experience any of these signs of postpartum depression. Help is always available, and it’s not your fault.
Postpartum Depression Treatments
The good news is that there are effective treatments for postpartum depression. With the correct care and support, many women recover completely. Treatments may include:
- Talking to a therapist or counsellor
- Joining support groups for new mothers
- Taking postpartum depression medication
- Practicing gentle exercise, rest, and good nutrition
- Including your family in your healing journey
Doctors often say that mental health treatment should be personalized. Every mother is different, and her needs are unique. The help of the best psychiatrist in Delhi can make a big difference during recovery.
Postpartum Depression Medication
If symptoms are severe, doctors may recommend medication for postpartum depression. These are carefully picked and safe, particularly for nursing mothers. Before beginning any medication, always consult the most qualified psychiatrist or mental health specialist.
In addition to medication, emotional support is required. The journey is facilitated by therapy and regular self-care.
The Role of Family and Friends
Healing becomes faster when love and understanding are offered. Family members can help by:
- Giving time for the mother to rest
- Talking and listening without judging
- Helping with baby care
- Encouraging the mother to seek help if needed
The best mental health doctor would always encourage families to become part of the recovery process.
When to See a Doctor
It’s important to consult a physician if the fatigue or sadness doesn’t go away after two weeks. It should be handled as an emergency if there are frightening thoughts. The best course of action is to get assistance from a qualified professional.
Final Thoughts
New moms experience a lot on an emotional and physical level. Sadness may be more than just baby blues if it persists for an extended period of time. At that point, knowing what postpartum depression is becomes crucial.
Early intervention, whether in the form of mental health or postpartum depression therapy, has a significant impact. The healing process is sped up and made easier with the correct treatment from experts like Dr. Sakshi.
There is no shame in asking for help. Many mothers feel this way, and you are not alone.
With love, support, and care, brighter days always return.
Book an appointment with me and let’s understand your journey—together.
📍 Dr. Sakshi
MBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
- It is a type of depression that can happen after childbirth. It causes sadness, tiredness, and trouble connecting with the baby.
By getting support, talking to a therapist, and sometimes taking postpartum depression medication. Self-care and love from family also help.
The 5 C’s are:
- Connection (talk to people)
- Calmness (stay peaceful)
- Caring (be kind to yourself and others)
- Control (manage what you can)
Confidence (believe in yourself)
It may look like constant crying, tiredness, mood changes, fear, or not feeling connected to the baby. These are all warning signs.
