Signs of depression caused after childbirth which are postpartum depression are very similar to what new mothers go through as “baby blues”. The symptoms are very alike only with postpartum depression they become more severe and do not pass off easily. Symptoms like a mood swings, irritability, crying for no apparent reason, insomnia or sadness are common to both. However, there is a lot more anxiety in postpartum depression where the mother fears that she may hurt her own child or on the other hand neglect it completely. Sometimes because of an overwhelming lethargy that takes one over there is no interest in one’s surroundings and a total lack of interest in the baby too. Often there are negative feelings which are directed towards the child and a lack of interest in one’s own well being. Sleeping and eating patterns change and there could be too much of both or too little.
What is alarming are thoughts of suicide and impending death which can become out of control. These are severe signs of depression and if not attended to could end up in something drastic happening. The mother has low self esteem which is common to most kinds of depression and cause a lot of anxiety to the patient. All this can be overcome with the right kind of treatment which is given before the problem becomes chronic. The onset of post partum depression can be noticed immediately after childbirth and those around the mother should recognize these symptoms and seek professional help immediately.