postpartum depression versus baby blues symptoms

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They can feel very similar but besides the difference in how long postpartum depression lasts versus the baby blues, we also see a much longer list of symptoms for postpartum depression.

Symptoms of baby blues — which last only a few days to a week or two after your baby is born — may include:

  • Mood swings

  • Anxiety

  • Sadness

  • Irritability

  • Feeling overwhelmed

  • Crying

  • Reduced concentration

  • Appetite problems

  • Trouble sleeping

Postpartum depression symptoms may include:

  • Depressed mood or severe mood swings

  • Crying too much

  • Difficulty bonding with your baby

  • Withdrawing from family and friends

  • Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual

  • Inability to sleep or sleeping too much

  • Overwhelming tiredness or loss of energy

  • Less interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy

  • Intense irritability and anger

  • Fear that you're not a good mother

  • Hopelessness

  • Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt or inadequacy

  • Reduced ability to think clearly, concentrate or make decisions

  • Restlessness

  • Severe anxiety and panic attacks

  • Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

  • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide