Recognize the Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Many women feel the baby blues after having a baby, but postpartum depression is more severe than that and can occur even two years after having a baby.

LACK OF INTEREST IN YOUR BABY - If you do not want to pick your baby up when it is crying and you don't feel like holding it or you want to stay away from it, there may be cause for concern.

NEGATIVE FEELINGS TOWARDS YOUR BABY - If you are having negative thoughts toward your baby, please do not ignore them or think they will go away. Get help from a doctor or health care professional.

WORRY ABOUT HURTING YOUR BABY - We are not talking about worrying that you may drop it, but more about purposely hurting your baby.

LACK OF CONCERN FOR YOURSELF - This is a tough one to recognize because most moms are concerned mostly with their children. If you have really let yourself go and do not want to take care of yourself, such as brushing your teeth and eating among other things, their may be cause for concern.

LOSS OF PLEASURE - Lack of desire can be a sign of something more serious.

LACK OF ENERGY AND MOTIVATION - Not just from your new busy schedule, but an unexplained lack of energy or motivation can be something more severe.

FEELINGS OF WORTHLESSNESS - Feelings of worthlessness are not normal for a new mother.

CHANGES IN APPETITE OR WEIGHT - You should resume your normal diet and weight shortly after child birth, if it has changed significantly, get help.

SLEEPING MORE OR LESS THAN USUAL - Changes in sleep pattern can change due to chemical imbalances in your brain.

RECURRENT THOUGHTS OF DEATH OR SUICIDE - If these thoughts are racing or even flashing in your head, you really should talk to a doctor.

Don't worry about what other people think. It is no fun having the blues all the time. If you are feeling depressed, seek help. You do not need to tell friends and loved ones about it if you do not want to. It can be strictly private between you and your doctor.

If you or a loved one is showing any of the above signs, please call a health care professional. There is help available. Recognizing the signs of postpartum depression early can help you save the life of your loved one.