Are Those Baby Blues For Real

I've got a new idea for a reality show; it can be about being a new mom and what it is really like. There is an idea that being a new mom means that your are all rosy and happy constantly. There is certainly some truth to that, however new mothers do not always feel happy, and some of them get the 'baby blues" and a few have postpartum depression.

The 'baby blues' will effect one half of women who give birth. So you're not alone, and certainly not a bad mother because you are feeling down. Feeling impatient, restless, irritable and anxious are common feelings after you have had a baby. You've spent the last nine months growing a new life in you, not surprisingly you likely will feel a little worn-out and exhausted. Can you think of anything more emotional than creating a new life, I cannot, so feeling emotionally spent seems perfectly acceptable.

Do you know the difference between 'baby blues' and postpartum depression? The 'baby blues will suddenly appear, and then suddenly disappear. The symptoms will persist for about 10% of mothers. The signs of postpartum depression may include, loss of appetite, tiredness, not being able to concentrate, emotional lows and highs, sadness, fearful of hurting the baby, or lack of interest or excessive interest in the baby. Realize that women with postpartum usually do not experience all of these symptoms, they could feel different ones on different days, or perhaps the same symptoms day in and day out. Because mothers can believe they should not feel anything but joy, they will often start to feel shame and guilt and eventually become cut off.

The worst part is no one knows what causes postpartum depression. Some research suggests hormones affect the brain chemistry and factors such as lack of sleep, stress and isolation subsequent to the baby is born can contribute to postpartum depression. Many women think that motherhood is this wondrous awesome thing that should be the most rewarding experience of your life. While it is all that, it's also the most challenging most frustrating and sometimes thankless job you'll ever do. So some women become severely depressed when all of these things happen after a baby is born.

You may not be able to see you're experiencing postpartum depression. It isn't uncommon to think you are not feeling great because of the lack of sleep you are experiencing. You need to pay attention to friends and family that are telling you that they are concerned about you. Should you recognize these symptoms or someone has expressed concern, call your doctor. There are many support groups out there which can help, however, you still need to see your doctor. Don't feel ashamed or guilty. Postpartum depression frequently occurs and with help and support from your doctor and loved ones you will be feeling better soon.

If you are experiencing any of these signs and symptoms for a long period of time, it isn't the 'baby blues'. but postpartum depression and you need to get hold of your doctor. You need to maintain your health for your new little baby.