Postpartum Depression — How to Recognize It?

Baby blues vs postpartum depression — how to tell the difference

In a nutshell: Baby blues affects up to 80% of new moms and passes in 2 weeks. Postpartum depression affects 1 in 7 women and requires support. The key difference: duration and intensity.

Baby blues vs postpartum depression

Signs that suggest postpartum depression

• Sadness or emptiness lasting more than 2 weeks
• Feeling like a "bad mother" despite all your efforts
• No pleasure in things you loved — including your baby
• Sleep troubles even when the baby is sleeping
• Excessive worry or anxiety about the baby's safety
• Withdrawing — distancing yourself from your partner, family, friends
• In severe cases: thoughts of harming yourself

What to do

1. Talk to someone — your partner, a friend, your midwife, your doctor
2. You have nothing to be ashamed of — PPD is an illness, not a failure
3. Professional help works — therapy, sometimes medication (options compatible with breastfeeding exist)
4. Crisis number if you need immediate help: 3114 (France)

What other moms say

"I waited 5 months before asking for help because I thought I was weak. Therapy changed everything. I wish I'd gone sooner."

You deserve help. You are a good mother. You are not alone.

This information does not replace medical advice.