Make an Appointment: 856-834-3709 |   [email protected]

  • Is it The Baby Blues or is it Postpartum Depression?

    Although welcoming a new baby into your life can be a very exciting time, it can also feel exhausting and worrisome for many parents. In addition to the many stressors of early parenthood, many people experience postpartum symptoms that make daily life even more difficult.

    According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 80% of new mothers experience feelings of sadness, anxiety, and fatigue shortly after giving birth. When those symptoms persist or worsen, it is likely Postpartum Depression, which affects approximately 15% of postpartum mothers.

    What are the Baby Blues?

    The “Baby Blues” are emotional changes that occur shortly after giving birth. In the first few days or weeks after birth, a person with “The Baby Blues” may feel:

    ● Sadness, Guilt, or Irritability

    ● Anxiety or Restlessness

    ● Difficulty with Sleep and Feeling Fatigued

    If these symptoms worsen or last longer than two weeks, talking with a therapist about postpartum depression is recommended.

    What is Postpartum Depression?

    Postpartum Depression lasts longer than “The Baby Blues” and the symptoms are more intense. During postpartum depression, you may feel a few of these symptoms or all of them intermittently:

     ● Depressed Mood

     ● Frustration

     ● Loss of Interest/ Enjoyment

     ● Lack of Connection With/Interest In the Baby

     ● Sleep Changes

     ● Appetite/ Eating Changes

    ● Fatigue

    ● Feelings of Worthlessness or Hopelessness

    ● Poor Concentration or Decreased Memory

    ● Physical Pains (Headaches/ Stomach Aches)

    ● Thoughts of Death or Suicidal Thoughts

    How Can I Feel Better?

    Postpartum Depression can be treated with counseling, medication, and increasing self-care/support network.

    ● Therapy and Counseling

    ○ Talking with a therapist can help if you are experiencing postpartum depression. Our therapists in both the Moorestown and Collingswood offices offer compassionate and supportive services for people experiencing postpartum depression. Our therapists can provide helpful tools for managing depression, a safe place to process the difficulties of parenthood, and evidence-based practices to help alleviate postpartum symptoms. If you are interested in starting therapy near you in Moorestown, reach out at 856-834-3709 to set up an appointment with a therapist.

    ● Medication Options

    ○ Our psychiatric provider can provide a thorough assessment for postpartum depression and can provide information on how medication may help. Medications can help to alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms in postpartum life. If you are interested in working with a psychiatric provider to discuss medication options, reach out to us at [email protected]

    ● Support Groups

    ○ Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment to process the difficulties of postpartum life. If you are interested in meeting with other individuals dealing with postpartum depression or anxiety, reach out to [email protected] to learn more about our Postpartum Support Group.

    Early parenthood can be difficult for any parent, but postpartum depression can be particularly difficult and isolating. If you are experiencing postpartum depression, reach out for help at Mind, Body, & Soul Therapy and Counseling by calling 856-834-3709 or filling out a Request Form on our website!