What is a Postpartum Mood Disorder?

Postpartum depression and other mood disorders (PPMD) during pregnancy are common, but women should not be feeling badly because they have given birth. You can find help and support through these times. If you become ill with the flu it’s not your fault and it’s important to get treatment. It’s the same with postpartum stress and mood disorders. It’s treatable. It’s not forever. Baby Blues, as it is commonly called, can last anywhere from 1-6 weeks post birth. These are transient feelings that come and go during the day and common during this adjustment period to your baby and schedule. Eventually, the Baby Blues go away. When symptoms become chronic and interfere with functioning (can't eat, sleep, get out of bed, shower, can't interact with the baby, etc.), it's time to seek help. There can be elements of Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Depression wrapped together, leaving mothers unable to function. Rarely, women experience psychotic symptoms. Chronic symptoms and psychosis need immediate professional attention.
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Possible symptoms you may be experiencing

Do You:
  • Have difficulty sleeping even though the baby is sleeping?
  • Crying, feel sad most days, almost all day?
  • Feel anxious?
  • Have thoughts that are scary or frightening?
  • Have difficulty stopping negative thoughts?
  • Believe you will always feel this way?
  • Have a poor appetite?
  • Question yourself about being a good mother?

Other Concerns:
  • Need to communicate your needs with your loved ones but don’t know how?
  • Not sure what the difference is between Baby Blues and PPMD?

​Life Threatening:
  • Have suicidal thoughts or thoughts about hurting your baby or yourself or someone else?
​If you are having these thoughts, please contact the The National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255, call 911, or go to your nearest hospital Emergency Room.

Let a therapist help you sort out the thoughts and feelings you may be having that are making you feel bad. Having a baby is a wonderful event, but it can be difficult for some women. That’s OK.  Let’s talk about it.  You don't have to suffer in silence and it doesn't mean your a bad mom!
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Contact Phyllis Betts, LCSW-C, at 301-980-5573 for a consultation.