Motherhood and Mental Health

What are Baby Blues?

Baby Blues is the name given to the sadness that mothers feel in the first few days or weeks after giving birth. This condition, which occurs in about 80 percent of women, is believed to be caused by a combination of stress and hormonal changes associated with having a new baby. Symptoms often include: sudden mood swings, sadness, crying spells, loss of appetite, irritability, anxiety, restlessness, trouble sleeping and feelings of loneliness. The symptoms usually go away with time, so women should seek medical advice if these feelings do not disappear after two weeks.

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a condition that can occur anytime within the first year after giving birth; symptoms are similar to the baby blues but do not go away within a few weeks time. About 15 to 20 percent of new mothers require treatment before being able to function normally throughout the day. This number increases to 50 to 80 percent if the mother has previously had PPD. If untreated, PPD can get worse and in one to two percent of cases, develop into psychosis.

What is Postpartum Psychosis?

Postpartum psychosis is a rare, yet severe, mental illness that usually occurs within six weeks of delivery. Symptoms include: hallucinations and loss of reality, delusions, inability to sleep, unsettled or angry feelings, unusual behavior and suicidal or homicidal thoughts. If you or anyone you know is experiencing these symptoms, you should contact a doctor immediately.

Instructor Tips:
Explain the difference between baby blues, postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. Emphasize the fact that many mothers experience these feelings and that there is nothing to feel embarrassed or guilty about. Make sure your participant knows that there are many different ways to get help.