Caring for your mental health after childbirth is just as important as caring for your physical recovery. With proper treatment, postpartum depression can be managed, allowing mothers to regain emotional balance and strengthen the bond with their child.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENTWhat Is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mood disorder that affects women after childbirth. Unlike the “baby blues,” which are mild and temporary, postpartum depression involves more intense and long-lasting feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that can interfere with daily life and caregiving.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 8 women experience symptoms of postpartum depression.
Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Symptoms often develop within weeks of childbirth but may begin during pregnancy or up to a year after delivery. Common signs include:
- Emotional symptoms: Persistent sadness, irritability, or overwhelming guilt
- Cognitive symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts, or feelings of worthlessness
- Behavioral symptoms: Withdrawing from loved ones, loss of interest in usual activities, or struggling to care for the baby
- Physical symptoms: Fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, or unexplained aches and pains
- Severe symptoms:: Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby (a medical emergency requiring immediate support)
What Causes Postpartum Depression?
Several factors may contribute to the development of PPD:
- Hormonal changes after childbirth
- Stressful pregnancy, delivery, or postpartum experiences
- Personal or family history of depression or anxiety
- Lack of social support
- Sleep deprivation and increased caregiving demands
How We Diagnose Postpartum Depression
Our diagnostic process is designed to identify postpartum depression early and provide timely intervention. This includes:
- Clinical evaluation of emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms
- Structured questionnaires such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)
- Comprehensive medical review to rule out thyroid issues or other health conditions
How We Treat Postpartum Depression
At our clinic, we provide compassionate and evidence-based care, which may include:
- Therapy (individual, couples, or group therapy) to provide emotional support and coping strategies
- Medication management when appropriate, with consideration for breastfeeding mothers
- Supportive care including lifestyle guidance, sleep planning, and stress management
- Family involvement to strengthen support systems and reduce feelings of isolation
- Regular follow-ups to ensure continued progress and adjust treatment as needed
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
If you are experiencing symptoms that affect your daily life and wellbeing, please remember—you are not alone, and help is available. Reaching out for support is a courageous first step toward healing and finding relief.
At Hemine Health and Wellness, our team is here to listen, guide, and walk with you through every stage of your journey. If you have questions or concerns, we welcome you to contact us. Together, we can explore the right care options for you and support your path toward renewed clarity, peace, and balance.