For most expecting moms, the birth of a child is often described or even expected to be one of the most joyous moments in your life. It’s a time filled with the excitement of new beginnings, the anticipation of firsts, and the warmth of familial love. However, for many new mothers, the transition to motherhood can bring an unexpected shadow: postpartum depression. This emotional upheaval, often misunderstood and stigmatised, can transform what should be a joyful time into a profound struggle.

As a mother cradles her newborn, she is expected to be enveloped in bliss, her heart swelling with love. Yet, behind the serene smiles often lies a silent battle, one where a sense of isolation, overwhelming sadness, and, in some cases, despair overshadows joy.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex condition that can manifest with a variety of symptoms, impacting a new mother’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being. It typically occurs within the first year after childbirth but can appear anytime during that period. Here are some common symptoms associated with postpartum depression:

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness: A deep sorrow that doesn’t seem to lift, often leading to despair.
• Frequent Crying: Crying frequently, even without an apparent reason.
• Guilt and Worthlessness: A sense of inadequacy or feeling like you’re not a good mother can lead to overwhelming guilt.
• Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Intense feelings of worry or anxiety that may seem irrational or excessive.
• Irritability or Anger: Unusual irritability or anger, often directed at those around you, including the baby or partner.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex condition that can manifest with a variety of symptoms, impacting a new mother’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being. It typically occurs within the first year after childbirth but can appear anytime during that period. Here are some common symptoms associated with postpartum depression:

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness: A deep sorrow that doesn’t seem to lift, often leading to despair.
• Frequent Crying: Crying frequently, even without an apparent reason.
• Guilt and Worthlessness: A sense of inadequacy or feeling like you’re not a good mother can lead to overwhelming guilt.
• Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Intense feelings of worry or anxiety that may seem irrational or excessive.
• Irritability or Anger: Unusual irritability or anger, often directed at those around you, including the baby or partner.

Cognitive Symptoms

• Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks or making decisions.
• Memory Problems: Forgetfulness or difficulty recalling things.
• Negative Thoughts: Persistent negative thoughts, including intrusive thoughts about harming oneself or the baby (a sign that requires immediate professional attention).

Behavioural Symptoms

• Loss of Interest in Activities: Losing interest in activities that once brought joy or pleasure.
• Withdrawal from Friends and Family: Avoiding social interactions and isolating oneself.
• Difficulty Bonding with the Baby: Struggling to connect with or care for the baby.

Physical Symptoms

• Changes in Appetite: Eating much more or much less than usual.
• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or oversleeping.
• Fatigue or Exhaustion: Extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.

Other Symptoms

• Physical Aches and Pains: Experiencing unexplained headaches, stomachaches, or other physical discomforts.
• Reduced Libido: A decrease in sexual desire.

Postpartum depression (PPD), unlike “baby blues”, which often clears up by itself, is a severe condition that requires proper treatment and support. Healthcare providers, such as doctors, psychiatrists, or therapists, can offer guidance and treatment options, including therapy and medication.

Anyone can develop postpartum depression, but some women have higher odds due to their personal mental health history or social circumstances.

Having one or more of the following risk factors for postpartum depression can increase your likelihood of developing the condition:

• Stressful life events, including a traumatic birth
• Inadequate social support, including being a single mom or experiencing domestic abuse
• Personal or family history of depression
• Pregnancy or birth complications, including preterm birth or a baby’s hospitalisation
• Being a teen mom
• Giving birth to twins or triplets
• Having had difficulty getting pregnant

You are not alone

While Postpartum depression (PPD) is not considered “normal”. It is more common than you like. Most moms want the best for their newborn baby; this includes a “perfect mom”. They expect a beautiful experience; they want to have a perfect baby, keep to an ideal schedule, and look beautiful simultaneously. When this image does not align with reality, it can have devastating effects.

Get help

If you notice your symptoms getting worse or if either you or your baby is in any harm, visit your nearest medical doctor. Sometimes Postpartum depression (PPD) or anxiety can improve over time without intervention,” Dr Snyder says in an article published in the New York Times, “but treatment will speed up the process and allow mom to enjoy her baby and her life now rather than waiting for months or longer.”

Treatment for Postpartum depression (PPD) can involve talk therapy, changes in behaviour or lifestyle (such as increasing physical activity or taking breaks from your baby), or some combination of the three. Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are the “gold standard” for treating postpartum depression and are safe to take while breastfeeding, Dr. Snyder said.

If left untreated, Postpartum depression (PPD)  can lead to other more severe mental and physical health issues.

The best mom anyone can be is one who knows when to care for herself. Knowing that you must be healthy to raise a healthy child is a sign of good parenting.

Like they say in the flight safety check, put on your oxygen mask first before you help the next person in an emergency. We can only pour from a full cup, not an empty cup.