You just delivered your baby. People expect you to be celebrating the arrival of your baby and be eager to bring him/her home. But instead of basking in new mom bliss, you feel like crying. You may feel emotionally fragile, overwhelmed or tearful.
No matter how much you look forward to the delivery of your son or daughter or how much you love him/her, there is no denying that having a baby is stressful. Considering the new responsibilities, sleep deprivation and lack of time for yourself, it is not surprising to see new moms feel like they’re on an emotional roller coaster. While this is a common occurrence for women after childbirth, it is likely that you are suffering from postpartum depression if the symptoms get worse or do not go away after a few weeks.
Here are the symptoms of postpartum depression.
A strong sense of failure or inadequacy
Women who suffer from postpartum depression believe that they can’t adequately care for their baby. Some even fear that they are not a good mother. As a result, they find it difficult to bond with their baby.
Keep in mind that mothers who are struggling with PPD do not have a mental illness; it’s just that they don’t trust themselves to do a good job in taking care of their child without social support.
Feelings of profound sadness, anger etc.
According to studies, up to 80% of women feel blue, anxious, weepy or irritable after childbirth. Some would cry, even when there’s no real reason to be crying. Others are too depressed that they choose to withdraw from family and friends.
Constant fatigue or tiredness
New mothers often have trouble sleeping in the days after childbirth. They usually stay awake at night tending to their little one, but still lie awake in bed even when the baby is sleeping soundly. Because of that, they feel tired most of the time.
Suicidal thoughts
Seek professional help immediately if you have thoughts of hurting yourself or the baby. To ensure your and your baby’s health and safety, the doctor may decide to keep you in the hospital. Doctors may also advise you to take medications to help treat the imbalance in your brain.