Postpartum depression is a common problem that affects many women after giving birth. According to the American Psychological Association, as many as one in seven women experience some form of postpartum depression.

While most women experience some degree of stress, anxiety, and sadness after giving birth, postpartum depression is a more severe and ongoing condition that can have serious ramifications for both the mother and her child. In this article, we will explore the warning signs of postpartum depression and other postpartum mental health conditions that you should be aware of.

Warning Sign #1: Persistent Sadness or Depression

The most common warning sign of postpartum depression is the persistent feeling of sadness or depression, which lasts for two weeks or more.

This feeling may be accompanied by loss of energy, motivation, and interest in activities that the mother previously enjoyed. She may also experience feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and guilt, and may have difficulty sleeping or eating.

Warning Sign #2: Extreme Fatigue

The demands of caring for a newborn baby can be exhausting, but postpartum depression can exacerbate the situation. A mother with postpartum depression may feel extreme levels of fatigue, even after a good night’s sleep.

This fatigue can be debilitating and can interfere with her ability to care for her baby.

Warning Sign #3: Irritability or Anger

While sadness and depression are the most commonly recognized symptoms of postpartum depression, some mothers may experience excessive irritability or anger. She may feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or easily triggered.

These symptoms may cause her to lash out at others or withdraw from social situations.

Warning Sign #4: Anxiety or Panic Attacks

Postpartum anxiety can manifest as excessive worry or fear, particularly regarding the safety of her newborn child. She may have difficulty sleeping or concentrating and may feel inexplicably anxious or agitated.

In severe cases, she may experience panic attacks, which are characterized by sudden and intense feelings of fear and distress.

Warning Sign #5: Obsessive Thoughts

Some mothers with postpartum depression may experience obsessive thoughts or compulsions. These thoughts can be intrusive, disturbing, or frightening. Examples may include thoughts of harming the baby, or excessive worries about germs or cleanliness.

These thoughts can be frightening to the mother and may interfere with her ability to function normally.

Warning Sign #6: Difficulty Bonding with the Baby

Sometimes, mothers with postpartum depression may have difficulty bonding with their newborn child. They may feel distant, detached, or uninterested in their baby.

This can be distressing for the mother, who may feel guilty or ashamed for not feeling a bond with her child. It can also interfere with the baby’s emotional development and attachment.

Warning Sign #7: Changes in Appetite

Postpartum depression can have a direct impact on the mother’s appetite and eating habits. She may have little or no interest in eating, leading to weight loss, or she may experience sudden cravings or overeating, leading to weight gain.

These changes in appetite can negatively impact her physical health and can also worsen her symptoms of depression.

Warning Sign #8: Physical Symptoms

Postpartum depression can manifest in physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach problems, and muscle pain. These symptoms may be the result of stress and anxiety or may be related to sleep deprivation or changes in hormone levels.

In some cases, these physical symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with the mother’s ability to care for her baby.

Warning Sign #9: Thoughts of Suicide or Self-Harm

Postpartum depression can occasionally lead to suicidal thoughts or behaviors or thoughts of self-harm. These feelings may be accompanied by a sense of hopelessness, despair, and a feeling that their situation is not improving.

It is important to seek help immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms.

Warning Sign #10: Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe form of postpartum mental illness that can manifest in the first few weeks after childbirth. Symptoms may include hallucinations, delusions, disorientation, and rapid mood swings.

Women with postpartum psychosis are at a high risk of self-harm or harm to others and require immediate medical attention.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these warning signs, it is important to seek professional help.

Postpartum depression and other postpartum mental health conditions are treatable, and early intervention can help to prevent or minimize the negative effects. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about treatment options that are available.