Postpartum Depression and Anxiety:
Having a baby is a big change, and many parents find their emotional health is affected along the way. Postpartum depression and anxiety are common, and both are treatable.
Postpartum Depression (PPD):
PPD is an umbrella term for a range of emotional difficulties that can affect a mother after giving birth. There is no single agreed definition. It describes a group of symptoms that change mood, behaviour and outlook. It can begin during pregnancy, right after birth, or at any point in the first year, and it can range from mild "baby blues" to deep despair. Research suggests it affects roughly 10-18% of pregnancies in Canada and worldwide.
If a sad, empty feeling is constant, intense and lasts two weeks or more, it is an illness that needs medical attention. With treatment, mothers can and do function well in all areas of their lives.
**Common Signs of PPD**
- Depressed mood or extreme sadness
- Crying spells for no apparent reason
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
- Panic attacks or excessive worry
- Feeling inadequate, or feeling resentment towards the baby
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Restlessness, feeling out of control, or lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Withdrawing from family, friends and social activities
- Physical symptoms such as weakness, feeling hot, digestive upset (gas, constipation, diarrhea) or headaches
Postpartum Anxiety:
Anxiety often appears alongside depression in the postpartum period, but it can also occur on its own. It can start in pregnancy, after birth, or any time in the first year, and it is more common in women who have had anxiety or panic attacks before.
**Common Signs of Anxiety**
- Unrealistic or excessive worry
- Feeling keyed up, on edge or easily startled
- Irritability
- Restlessness and getting tired easily
- Trembling, twitching or feeling shaky
- Shortness of breath or a smothering sensation
- Racing or pounding heart
- Sweating or cold, clammy hands
- Dizziness or light headedness
- Difficulty concentrating, or the mind going blank
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Digestive upset
You're Not Alone: Recovery Is Possible:
Many mothers experience postpartum depression and anxiety, and none of it is a personal failing. These are recognized, treatable conditions, and with the right support, recovery is expected.