What Does Postpartum Depression Feel Like?

Hey, Shameless Mamas - Let’s Talk about Maternal Mental Health

Like many other mamas, bringing your baby home may not have been the experience you had imagined. It may have been accompanied by feelings of overwhelming sadness, guilt, and confusion. These emotions are not a sign of failure or a lack of love for your baby—they may be symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD).

As a postpartum therapist, I’ve worked with many moms who have experienced postpartum depression in unique ways, yet certain similarities often emerge. Below, I’ll share some common feelings associated with PPD and how seeking help from a postpartum depression therapist may help.

Emotional Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

1. Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness
   PPD often feels like an emotional weight that doesn’t lift. You may find yourself crying for no clear reason or feeling an unshakable sense of despair.

2. Overwhelming Guilt or Shame
   You may feel pressure to "enjoy every moment" with your baby. When this isn’t your reality, this can lead to feelings of guilt or inadequacy—thoughts like, “I’m not a good parent” or “I’m failing at this.”

3. Irritability or Anger
   You may feel easily frustrated or angry with loved ones, yourself, or even your baby. These emotions can add to the guilt and make it harder for you to reach out for help.

4. Loss of Interest or Enjoyment
   Activities that once brought you joy might now feel meaningless. This can include bonding with your baby, which can create a painful disconnect and leave you longing to feel close to your child.

Physical Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

1. Exhaustion Beyond the Usual Newborn Stage
   While fatigue is expected with a new baby, PPD can cause exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest. It may feel as though your energy has been completely drained.

2. Appetite Changes
   Postpartum depression may lead to a loss of appetite or overeating as a way of coping with overwhelming feelings.

3. Sleep Difficulties 
   You may experience trouble sleeping, even when your baby is resting peacefully. You may wake in the middle of the night unable to return to sleep. Alternatively, you may find yourself sleeping excessively as a form of escape.

Thoughts/Behaviors in Postpartum Depression

1. Intrusive Thoughts
   These are unwanted and often distressing thoughts about harming yourself, your baby, or others. It’s important to know that these thoughts don’t reflect your true intentions or desires but can be a sign to seek professional support. My blog discussing intrusive thoughts can provide additional insight.

2. Difficulty Bonding with Your Baby
   You may feel emotionally detached or unable to connect with your baby.  This can heighten your feelings of isolation and inadequacy.

3. Avoidance
   You may find yourself avoiding social interactions, household tasks, or even caring for your baby because everything feels too overwhelming.

When to Seek Help

If you recognize any of these feelings, you’re not alone, and help is available. A therapist for postpartum depression can provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore these emotions and work toward healing.

How a Postpartum Depression Therapist Can Help

1. Understanding and Validation
   A postpartum depression therapist will listen without judgment, helping you feel understood and supported.

2. Customized Treatment Plans
   As a therapist trained in postpartum depression treatment in CA, I use evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address specific needs.

3. Building a Support Network
   Your therapist can help you identify supportive resources and, if needed, work with your partner or family members to create a nurturing environment for recovery.

Breaking the Stigma

Seeking help for postpartum depression is a courageous step. It’s a decision to prioritize your well-being and, in turn, the well-being of your baby. As a postpartum therapist, my mission is to help mamas feel empowered and free from the shame often associated with these struggles. If you’re searching for postpartum depression treatment in CA, know that compassionate support is available.

You don’t have to face postpartum depression alone. Healing is possible, and with the right guidance, you can find joy in your journey of motherhood.

Ready to start your healing journey? Contact Shameless Mama Wellness today to schedule a free consultation.

With Warmth and in Solidarity,
Marilyn

I provide a safe haven to discuss the thoughts you keep hidden.

As a Postpartum Therapist in California, I offer many services utilizing evidence-based treatments. Some services at Shameless Mama Wellness include treatment for postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, birth trauma therapy, fertility counseling, therapy for miscarriage and loss, pregnancy therapy and treatment for NICU PTSD.

Online therapy available to new moms in California.