Bringing a new baby into the world is often imagined as a joyful experience. But for many new moms, it also brings emotional and mental health challenges. One of the most common and serious conditions affecting new mothers is postpartum depression (PPD) — a mood disorder that can occur after childbirth. Understanding what postpartum depression is, what causes it, and how to get help is essential to supporting maternal mental health and family well-being.
What Is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a type of perinatal depression, which refers to mental health conditions that can occur during pregnancy or after delivery. PPD is more than just the “baby blues.” While baby blues affect up to 80% of new mothers and typically resolve within a couple of weeks, postpartum depression is more severe and long-lasting. It can interfere with a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby and may require professional treatment.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Symptoms of postpartum depression vary, but common signs include:
- Persistent depressed mood or severe mood swings
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness
- Intense irritability or anger
- Trouble sleeping, even when the baby sleeps
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty bonding with the new baby
- Withdrawing from family members and friends
- Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby
- Difficulty concentrating or completing daily tasks
If these symptoms last more than two weeks or worsen, it’s crucial to reach out to a mental health professional or health care provider for a depression screening.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact causes of postpartum depression are complex, involving a combination of physical, emotional, and environmental factors. After childbirth, hormonal changes, especially the rapid drop in estrogen and progesterone, can significantly affect brain chemistry. Other risk factors include:
- History of depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions
- Lack of social support
- Complications during childbirth
- Having a baby with health problems
- Challenges with breastfeeding
- Family history of depression
- Personal or family history of mental illness
Postpartum Psychosis: A Medical Emergency
While rare, postpartum psychosis is a severe mental disorder that can occur within the first few weeks after delivery. Symptoms may include hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and thoughts of death or harming the baby. This condition is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention, often involving hospitalization, medication, and psychiatric care.
Getting Diagnosed and Finding Help
Early interventions can make a significant difference. A primary care provider, obstetrician, or mental health professional can provide depression screening and refer new moms to treatment options. Depending on the severity of the condition, care may involve:
- Talk therapy (including cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy)
- Antidepressant medications (always discussed in the context of breastfeeding)
- Support from family members, support groups, or organizations like Postpartum Support International
- New FDA-approved medications such as brexanolone
In some cases, hormonal therapies or thyroid testing may be considered to address underlying medical conditions.
The Role of Social and Public Health Support
Maternal mental health is a growing public health concern. New moms benefit from social support, flexible health care, and increased awareness around mental health disorders. Encouraging open dialogue and reducing stigma can help new parents feel safe seeking the help they need. Husbands can help by normalizing, even if they can’t relate. Hotlines and local mental health resources, including gov programs, are available to support new parents experiencing postpartum mental health challenges.
You’re Not Alone—Help Is Available
Postpartum depression can feel isolating, but help is available. Whether you’re a new mother struggling with overwhelming emotions or a loved one concerned about someone close, reaching out is the first step toward healing. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen.
Schedule a confidential session with a licensed mental health provider at CBT Baltimore today. We’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.