Understanding Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex mood disorder that affects many new mothers in the weeks and months following childbirth. It’s essential to understand that PPD is more than just "baby blues," a term used to describe the mild, short-term sadness many women feel after giving birth. The symptoms of PPD can range from persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness to overwhelming fatigue, severe anxiety, and even thoughts of harming oneself or the baby. Some of the contributing factors include hormonal changes after childbirth, a history of depression or anxiety, childbirth-related trauma, and various stressors associated with new motherhood.