Question: When Should I See a Doctor for My Postpartum Depression?
Answer:
Some of the signs that you may have postpartum depression and need to seek professional help are:
- Your depressed feelings haven't gone away after two weeks.
- Your depression symptoms are getting worse.
- You've developed strong feelings of anger or sadness.
- It's hard for you to perform daily tasks.
- You are having trouble caring for yourself or your baby.
- You are having thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby.
- You are seeing or hearing things that aren't there, or you are feeling confused.
- You are having rapid mood swings.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or are just unsure how well you are handling motherhood, don't hesitate to ask for assistance. Postpartum depression is a biologically based illness -- not a sign that you are weak or a bad mother.
There is no shame in asking for help if you need it. Your well-being and the well-being of your child are important. Remember: No matter how alone you feel, you are not the first mother to go through this. Help is available.
Find a Psychiatrist in Your Area
Sources: Gabbe, Steven G. et. al. Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 5th ed. Philadelphia: Churchill Livingstone, 2007.
