Postpartum Depression: What Is It, and How Do I Know If I Have It?
If you’ve ever Googled postpartum depression (PPD), you’ve probably come across a long list of symptoms that may—or may not—apply to you. While online self-assessments and symptom checkers can be useful starting points, the best way to determine if you’re experiencing PPD is to be evaluated by a mental health professional.
Here’s why:
The hormonal shifts that occur immediately after giving birth can be incredibly intense and may sometimes mimic the symptoms of PPD. This isn’t to invalidate the experiences of those struggling without a formal diagnosis—postpartum is HARD, and the hormonal changes are REAL. You just spent 9+ months anticipating something unknown, magical, and life-changing. During that time, you were treated differently—people held doors open for you, you had regular medical checkups, and (hopefully) your support system rallied around you. Now, everything feels different. Your body feels unfamiliar, sleep is a distant memory, and even something as simple as taking a shower can feel impossible—especially when the fear of your baby waking up mid-shampoo looms over you.
That alone is enough to send anyone into therapy. But it doesn’t stop there. Your hormones are still in flux, and if you were already sensitive to hormonal changes before pregnancy, the postpartum period can be even more challenging.
So, what is postpartum depression?
PPD is more than just the “baby blues.” It’s a combination of depressive symptoms that create an invisible weight, pulling you back every step of the way. It exhausts you and puts an unfair barrier between you and the people you love—especially your baby. PPD can make it feel impossible to be the parent you know you can be.
Treatment looks different for everyone.
Some people choose medication to alleviate their symptoms, while others prefer non-medication approaches. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and I’m here to support your values, not impose my own. No matter which path you choose, I can offer skills and strategies to help you become the best version of yourself.
What PPD is not:
A reason to fear state involvement. Many parents hesitate to reach out for help because they’re afraid a clinician will report them to child protective services. This is not a reason to avoid seeking support. Providers are only mandated to report when there is an imminent risk of actual harm. It’s within normal limits to have scary, intrusive thoughts after having a baby—that alone is not a reason to involve the state.
If you think you may be experiencing postpartum depression—or simply struggling with the transition to parenthood—please reach out. You and your family deserve the best version of you, and it’s okay to ask for help along the way.
In summary:
The time in your life when you are suddenly never alone can feel like the loneliest experience. Whether or not you meet the criteria for PPD, it’s okay to ask for support. You don’t have to go through this alone.
