Could this be Postpartum Depression?

Dr. Hannah Singer

Having a baby is supposed to be the “happiest time of your life”, right? At least that’s what Instagram photos and Hallmark cards will have us believe. But what happens when the “happiest time of your life” doesn’t feel so happy? The unfiltered truth is that pregnancy and childbirth often brings a wide range of emotions, which sometimes can include depression, anxiety, and panic. 

In fact, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting 1 in every 7 pregnancies. Yes, you read that right - 1 in 7! Chances are that you, or someone close to you  (sister, wife, best friend,,,) will develop depression or anxiety during pregnancy or the first year postpartum. ​Thankfully, there are effective treatment options available. 

How do you know if you’re suffering from postpartum depression? The checklist below is a good place to start - it's taken from a book I HIGHLY recommend titled, This Isn’t What I Expected: Overcoming Postpartum Depression by Karen R. Kleiman, MSW, LCSW and Valerie Davis, MD. 

 Count how many statements below describe how you’ve been feeling lately.

1. I can’t shake feeling depressed no matter what I do.
2. I cry at least once a day.
3. I feel sad most or all of the time.
4. I can’t concentrate.
5. I don’t enjoy the things I used to enjoy.
6. I have no interest in sex, even though my doctor says I’m physically able to resume sexual activity.
7. I can’t sleep, even when my baby sleeps.
8. I feel like a failure all the time.
9. I have no energy; I’m tired all the time.
10. I have no appetite and no enjoyment of food (or, I am having sugar and carbohydrate cravings and compulsively eating all the time).
11. I can’t remember the last time I laughed.
12. Every little thing gets on my nerves lately. Sometimes, I am even furious at my baby. Often, I am angry with my partner.
13. I feel that the future is hopeless.
14. It seems like I will feel this way forever.
15. There are times when I feel that it would be better to be dead than to feel this way for one more minute**

Most new parents will relate to one or two of these statements. However, if you agreed with four or more of the above statements, you are likely experiencing postpartum depression. Believe me when I say that you are not alone and you are NOT to blame.

Please don’t suffer in silence - postpartum depression is treatable and you will get better with the right help. It’s best to be further evaluated by a doctor or mental health professional who specializes in treating perinatal depression and anxiety. To find a qualified professional near you, visit Postpartum Support International www.postpartum.net or if you live in the Los Angeles area, you can visit http://directory.maternalmentalhealthnow.org.

**If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, seek help immediately. Do not wait. Call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. You can also call the National Suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255. You are not alone. You are not to blame. And with the right help, you will get better**

---

About Dr. Hannah Singer

I'm a California licensed clinical psychologist and adult psychotherapist specializing in treating anxiety and depression, particularly during pregnancy and the postpartum period. If you live in California and are interested in working with me, please click here to learn more about how I can help.