The expectations of how you will feel when you have a baby do not always translate into reality once you have the baby. Many new mothers find that their true postpartum experience does not match up with the joy and wonderful feelings they anticipated.
If you feel this way, you’re certainly not alone. In fact, 70% to 80% of new mothers experience what is known as “baby blues” after giving birth, according to the American Pregnancy Association. The good news is that “baby blues” usually goes away between a few days and two weeks after birth and is different from postpartum depression.
The difference between postpartum depression and“baby blues”
A person who gives birth is likely to experience “baby blues.” Postpartum depression (or perinatal depression) is a serious mental health condition that begins anytime during pregnancy up to one year after giving birth. This condition is more severe than “baby blues” and does not resolve on its own. It often requires more in-depth treatment to heal and prevent the symptoms from becoming long-term. While the symptoms of “baby blues” can sometimes feel as severe as postpartum depression symptoms, they will subside in a short period of time.
What are the signs and symptoms of “baby blues”?
When experiencing symptoms of “baby blues,” you might find that your mood shifts quickly from happy to sad and back again. You might feel proud of yourself for how well you’re doing as a new mom, then the next minute be in tears because you feel like you’re doing everything wrong and are not cut out for the job.
You might also feel a lack of motivation to fulfill basic needs such as eating, showering, brushing your hair or changing out of sweatpants. You might feel anxious, irritable, exhausted and overwhelmed. These symptoms could be from the extreme fluctuations in hormones your body experiences from giving birth, as well as the lack of sleep that comes with having a newborn.
Other symptoms of “baby blues” might include:
• Crying without knowing why
• Fatigue
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Oversleeping
• Appetite changes
• Sadness
• Inability to concentrate
• Restlessness
• Fear for the future
• Negative thoughts about yourself or your baby
• Impatience
How can I tell if I have “baby blues” or postpartum depression?
While symptoms might overlap or be similar, those associated with postpartum depression are more severe and persistent.
If your symptoms last longer than two weeks, or begin during your pregnancy or over two weeks after childbirth, they might be different than “baby blues.” If you’re concerned about the symptoms you’re experiencing, it’s important to speak with a professional.
How do I treat “baby blues”?
While “baby blues” is short-lived, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms while you’re going through them, and therapy can be a great option. While “baby blues” doesn’t typically require medication or intense therapy, there are lifestyle changes that a therapist can recommend and help implement into your daily routine.
Some of these might include getting more sleep, reaching out for help, building and using a strong support system, engaging in self-care practices, getting enough sunlight and Vitamin D, eating a healthy diet, abstaining from substance use, being kind to yourself and checking in with your obstetrician and/or primary care provider.
If I have symptoms of “baby blues,” should I seek therapy or wait?
It’s never a bad idea to speak with a therapist if you’re not feeling like your usual self or are concerned about your well-being. If you’re not feeling well, waiting two more weeks to determine if your symptoms will subside or if you should see a therapist could rob you of two weeks’ progress from treatment or some helpful ways to manage “baby blues.”
A licensed therapist can bring you peace of mind and lighten the burdens you might be feeling as a new mother. Whether you’re certain of the cause of your symptoms or not, a mental health professional is there to help you. Since symptoms of “baby blues” can feel similar to postpartum depression, working with a professional to shed light on your unique symptoms can be quite beneficial.
While “baby blues” and postpartum depression can be difficult to endure, help and relief are available through the support of a licensed therapist. It’s OK to ask for help and support during pregnancy or after giving birth, and it doesn’t make you a bad mother if you do. In fact, it makes you brave and responsible to want the best for your baby and yourself.
Marisa Perera, PhD. is Senior Manager of Clinical Innovation and Research at Two Chairs, a modern behavioral health company that uses an in-depth, research-backed matching process to ensure the ideal patient-therapist fit.
