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Coping With the Baby Blues

Postpartum Depression or Baby Blues?



Nearly 80% of women experience a letdown after delivery. But how do you know whether your feelings are typical "baby blues" or a full-blown case of Postpartum Depression (PPD)? Here's a list that explains the main differences between the two. This is great information to share with your partner, family, and friends who might see these signs before you identify them yourself.




  • Sadness
  • "Let down" feeling
  • Teary, crying easily
  • Moodiness
  • Tiredness
  • Signs last up to 2 weeks
  • Usually goes away after time and rest


  • Sunshine
  • Friends
  • Light activity or exercise
    (*after your doctor clears you for exercise postpartum)
  • Balanced diet
  • Rest (as much as possible)
  • Talking to your partner about your fears and concerns
  • Support group of other mothers
  • Taking time to get dressed and fix your hair

  • Constantly feeling restless
  • Irritability that doesn't fade day-after-day
  • Feelings of sadness that last more than a few hours or more than one day
  • Frequent and inexplicable crying
  • Persistent lack of energy
  • Inability to sleep, despite fatigue
  • Weight loss or weight gain that is extreme
  • Feelings or fears that you will harm the baby
  • Guilt
  • Feelings of inadequacy
  • Excessive anger
  • Lack of interest in your newborn
  • Intrusive thoughts
  • Inability to make decisions
  • Symptoms last longer than two weeks


According to a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, women with low iron levels were twice as likely to show signs of Postpartum Depression. Beef, pork, potatoes, fortified cereals, spinach, and beans are all great sources of iron.


This article has been reviewed by Jen Mueller, a certified prenatal and postpartum finess specialist.
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