Postpartum depression is a form of major depression which begins within 4 weeks of the delivery and is diagnosed if the symptoms last up to six months. It gets severe if the symptoms are not addressed.
Indicators
Feeling anxious, fearful, panic often, experiencing symptoms for more than two weeks, unable to function normally, unable to cope with daily tasks are indicators of the beginning of postpartum depression.
Postpartum Blues
It is the mildest form of postpartum depression. It lasts only for a few days and is expected to subside in about two weeks after delivering the baby.
Postpartum Psychosis
It is the mildest form of postpartum depression. It lasts only for a few days and is expected to subside in about two weeks after delivering the baby.
It is the result of perceived or real threats to the mother’s life during or post childbirth. The threats include unplanned C-section, complications during the delivery, baby being born unhealthy or other injuries.
Effects
Postpartum depression causes complications in the mother’s mental health and also affects the child’s mental health. The baby can sense the changes in the mother’s mood and behaviour.