Is it Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression?
Telling the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression — and getting real support.
The Baby Blues
A few days after the birth, a woman frequently experiences a sense of disorientation. Often abrupt mood swings such as a feeling of elation, an emotional "high", are quickly followed by sadness, or an emotional "low." Some of the common emotional reactions are:
- Loneliness
- Sadness
- Low self-esteem
- Loss of identity
- Increased sensitivity and vulnerability
- Irritability
- Decreased sexuality
Although emotional responses characterized by the "baby blues" are considered to be very common, the postpartum woman should do her best to alleviate these symptoms. Sharing her feelings with her partner, other mothers, or professionals can often help.
Postpartum Depression
Some women suffer from emotional symptoms known as Postpartum Depression (PPD). Because these symptoms are less common and have been given little professional attention in the past, these women often feel extremely bewildered because they experience symptoms for which they are usually unprepared. A few of these symptoms include:
- High anxiety levels
- Deep despondency
- Insomnia
- Frequent crying
- Aversion to touching the baby
- A feeling of being "out of control"
- Fear of harming the baby
If you are experiencing any of these feelings, it is important to seek professional help for treatment or for referral.
If you'd like more information, or a consultation, please reach out!
ContactMeet the Therapists
Our team members who specialize in this area.
Dr. Hanna is an interactive, insight-oriented individual and couples therapist with over 20 years of experience, specializing in postpartum depression, relationship counseling, parenting, depression, and anxiety.
Virginia creates a safe, warm environment where clients feel truly heard. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, and exposure-based therapies, with a collaborative approach focused on meaningful, lasting change.
Margita is passionate about helping individuals, children, and couples find deeper self-understanding and personal growth. She takes a compassionate, collaborative approach to help clients reach their authentic goals.
Socorro brings over 10 years of therapeutic experience with adults, couples, children, and families. She uses a client-centered collaborative approach drawing on CBT, trauma-focused therapy, and attachment-based modalities.
Brittlin has experience with a wide range of ages, populations, and diagnoses. She is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can work toward positive change through a collaborative therapeutic process.
Esthela brings a personalized, trauma-informed approach and over 25 years in communications. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she specializes in anxiety, depression, and family counseling for Long Beach's diverse community.
Nicole believes that reaching out for support is one of the most courageous things you can do. She offers personalized, judgment-free therapy to adults, elderly individuals, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions.
Ready to begin?
Take the first step toward healing and growth. Request an appointment today.