10 Signs You Might Be Experiencing Postpartum Depression

You’re Not Alone in Feeling This Way

You love your baby but lately, you don’t feel like yourself.

Maybe you’ve been crying more often, struggling to sleep, or feeling numb when you expected joy. You might even wonder, “Is this normal?”

If so, you’re not alone. Postpartum depression (PPD) affects many new moms, often starting within the first few weeks or months after giving birth. It’s more than “baby blues”- it’s a real and treatable condition that deserves compassion and care.

Here are 10 common signs you might be experiencing postpartum depression.

1. Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness

You feel a deep sadness that doesn’t lift, even when things are going well. It might feel like a heavy fog you can’t shake.

2. Loss of Interest or Pleasure

Things you used to enjoy- like reading, cooking, or connecting with loved ones, don’t bring the same joy anymore.

3. Overwhelming Guilt or Worthlessness

You might think, “I’m a bad mom” or “I should be happier.” These self-critical thoughts can become relentless.

4. Fatigue or Exhaustion Beyond Sleep Deprivation

Of course you’re tired but this kind of exhaustion feels bone-deep, even when you do get rest and sleep.

5. Changes in Appetite or Sleep

You might have little interest in eating or find yourself overeating for comfort. Sleep can also feel impossible, even when your baby is resting.

6. Difficulty Bonding with Your Baby

You may love your baby deeply but feel disconnected or numb. This can be confusing and painful, but it’s a common symptom of PPD- not a reflection of your love.

7. Irritability or Anger

Postpartum depression doesn’t always look like sadness. For many moms, it shows up as irritability, frustration, or emotional outbursts.

8. Anxiety and Racing Thoughts

Worrying constantly about your baby’s safety, feeling on edge, or experiencing panic attacks can all be part of postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety.

9. Withdrawing from Others

You might avoid friends, family, or even your partner- especially if it feels like no one understands.

10. Thoughts of Self-Harm or That Your Family Would Be Better Off Without You

If you’ve had thoughts like these, please know you are not alone- and help is available. These thoughts are symptoms, not truths.

Call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), 911, or reach out to your healthcare provider immediately for support.

When to Reach Out for Help for PPD

If you’ve noticed several of these signs lasting more than two weeks, or if your symptoms are affecting your daily life, it’s time to seek support.

Postpartum depression is not your fault- and it’s treatable.

Therapy, support groups, and sometimes medication can make an enormous difference. At Happy Moms Therapy, we specialize in maternal mental health, helping mothers process emotions, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with themselves through compassionate, trauma-informed care.

You Deserve Support and Healing

You are not broken- you’re a mom navigating an enormous life change. With the right support, it’s absolutely possible to feel like yourself again.

👉 Reach out for a free consultation with Happy Moms Therapy to begin your healing journey and find the peace and confidence you deserve in motherhood.

Disclaimer: This is not a replacement for a therapeutic relationship or mental health services. This is for educational purposes only and should be in used only in conjunction in working with a licensed mental health professional. If you are in California and looking for a professional therapist feel free to use the contact me to request an appointment or search Psychology Today for local therapists in your area.

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