Signs of Postpartum Depression

The signs of postpartum depression include:

• Feeling restless or irritable.

• Feeling sad, depressed or crying a lot.

• Having no energy.

• Having headaches, chest pains, heart palpitations (the heart being fast and feeling like it is skipping beats), numbness, or hyperventilation (fast and shallow breathing).

• Not being able to sleep or being very tired, or both.

• Not being able to eat and weight loss.

• Overeating and weight gain.

• Trouble focusing, remembering, or making decisions.

• Being overly worried about the baby.

• Not having any interest in the baby.

• Feeling worthless and guilty.

• Being afraid of hurting the baby or yourself.

• No interest or pleasure in activities, including sex.

A woman may feel anxious after childbirth but not have PPD. She may have what is called postpartum anxiety or panic disorder. Signs of this condition include strong anxiety and fear, rapid breathing, fast heart rate, hot or cold flashes, chest pain, and feeling shaky or dizzy. Talk with your health care provider right away if you have any of these signs. Medication and counseling can be used to treat postpartum anxiety.