postpartum depression(ppd).
I’ve heard so many stories from new moms—stories filled with laughter, tears, and wide-eyed recollections of what we went through. One thing that consistently stands out is that almost all of us, somewhere between the excitement of finding out we were expecting and preparing for the baby’s arrival, silently went through a cycle of depression—often without even realizing it.
Mind-blowing, right?
How can someone lose sight of who they are while caring for a gift—a tiny, precious bundle of joy?
Let’s start with that phrase: “bundle of joy.”
Everyone expects you to be glowing with happiness, overflowing with love. But sometimes, time feels like it’s frozen. You start avoiding mirrors, and when you do catch your reflection, the person staring back seems… off. Familiar, but distant. You want to savor every moment, but worry and fear weigh you down. Even simple tasks begin to feel like surviving in a wild jungle—every day a new challenge. When this becomes your norm, you’ve entered the red zone.
And here’s the hard truth: when misery starts to feel comfortable, it’s even harder to escape it.
mY STORY:THE DAY EVERYTHING CHANGED.
May 2019 changed my life. I became a mom. You’d think nine months of preparation would have readied me—but no. I was hit with a storm of emotions: joy, fear, pain, anger, love, and confusion—all rolled into one.
I’m an optimist. With a supportive family, I told myself, “I’ve got this.”
And for a while, I did. Or so I thought.
Weeks turned into months. Adjustments became my daily reality. But slowly, I lost myself—my identity, my long-time relationships, my partner, and, honestly, my sanity. And all of that happened from the “comfort” of my couch.
It’s been six years now. With God’s grace, a loving family, and therapy, I made it through. My little girl is a blessing—something I can fully appreciate now. So if you’re reading this and find yourself in the thick of it—in the darkness, juggling joy and guilt, feeling like you’re not enough—I want you to know: it is possible to come out on the other side.
But First: Let’s Understand the Terminology
It’s important to distinguish between baby blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis—three very different experiences.
1. Baby Blues
- Typically starts around day 5 after delivery.
- Involves mood swings, mild anxiety, irritability, and tearfulness.
- These symptoms are temporary and don’t interfere significantly with daily tasks.
2. Postpartum Depression (PPD)
- Can last for several months.
- Symptoms include:
- Persistent sadness
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Sleep disturbances
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Neglecting self-care
- Suicidal thoughts
- This condition needs medical attention.
3. Postpartum Psychosis
- Rare but severe.
- Symptoms appear within 48–72 hours post-delivery.
- Includes:
- Severe confusion
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Mood swings
- Risk of harm to self or baby
- Often linked to pre-existing conditions like bipolar disorder.
- Requires immediate medical intervention.
4. Postpartum OCD
- Sometimes mistaken for a mother’s natural protectiveness.
- Symptoms:
- Obsessions with germs, safety, or aggressive thoughts
- Compulsive behaviors like excessive cleaning or constant checking
- It’s important to distinguish between healthy concern and overwhelming fear.
Why Does PPD Happen?
It’s not about being weak, or failing as a mother. Postpartum depression doesn’t care how “perfect” your life looks. It’s the result of:
- Hormonal shifts
- Emotional and physical exhaustion
- Lifestyle changes
- Lack of support
Common Risk Factors Include:
- Difficult pregnancy or delivery
- Financial stress
- Relationship issues
- Societal expectations
- Young/teen motherhood
- Lack of social support
- Trying to juggle multiple roles
The Good News
For many, symptoms ease with time. But for others, professional help is essential—and effective. Postpartum depression is treatable. Early diagnosis and intervention make a huge difference.
What You Can Do:
- Take walks. Fresh air works wonders.
- Exercise, if your doctor approves—it helps regulate mood.
- Join a new moms’ group. You are not alone. Sharing helps.
- Ask for help. Let friends or family watch the baby while you nap. Rest is healing.
- Communicate with your partner. They can’t help if they don’t know what you’re going through.
- Don’t bottle it up. Speak up—even if it feels hard.
Final Thoughts:
It’s okay to not be okay.
Postpartum depression is not a sign of weakness. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad mom.
The more we talk about it, the more we can support each other.
So let’s spread awareness. Let’s be honest. Let’s be kind—to ourselves and each other.
PPD is real. It’s treatable. And it does get better.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2020) Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (7th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
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