Drawing The Line Between 'Baby Blues' And Post-Natal Depression

Mothers go into a stressful state right after giving birth that may last to three to five days for most. Others are not so fortunate as 15 percent of the population of these mothers turn into severe cases of post-natal depression.

It is important to know when the "baby blues" turn into something far more stressful and harmful to the mother and child, post-natal depression. The first days after giving birth can be very stressful for the mother. During this stage, the woman is subjected to a shift in hormonal balances, a change in lifestyle, and unpredictable sleeping patterns.

This period causes the woman to experience rapid mood swings and become very irate to any form of stimuli. This phenomenon is called "baby blues." But these symptoms are also indicators of a much worse condition called post-natal depression. To get a better distinction of these conditions, it is best to first define them.

According to Postpartum.org, "baby blues" is experienced by 80 percent of women after giving birth. Rapid mood swings, helplessness, anxiety, irritability, random emotional breakdowns and sleeping difficulties are the normal feelings and responses of women with "baby blues." These symptoms ideally last up to three to five days only. The best course of action during "baby blues" is reassurance and support.

The mother could be experiencing post-natal depression in an event when the said symptoms persist. There is an estimated 15 percent of mothers who experience this, months after giving birth. Prolonged effects of post-natal depression can greatly affect the welfare not only of the mother but also of the child.

Stuff reports that severe cases of post-natal depression have mothers experienced thoughts of harming herself or the baby. The condition is treatable via counseling and medication but it takes a while, up to months, to diagnose the condition which places the mother and child at risk for a longer period of time.

Organization like Post Natal Depression Support Network Nelson has been reaching out and helping mothers overcome post-natal depression for over 25 years. Every family is encouraged to be aware of post-natal depression for it to be dealt with immediately and create less harmful effects to the mother and child.