4,7 of 5 in 5000+ reviews
Thousands of clients trust Lavendla Therapy for delivering exceptional service and support.
Having a baby is a life-changing event. Most of us have heard of "the baby blues," but if it seems like your sadness and hopelessness isn't going away after the first few weeks, you might have postpartum depression. Here we explore depression that strikes after pregnancy and how you can get help.
What is postpartum depression?
Postnatal depression, also known as postpartum depression (PPD), is a form of depression that can affect women after they have given birth. This type of depression usually occurs within the first few months after delivery but can develop at any point in the first year after birth.
Why do people get depressed after giving birth?
There is rarely a single cause of depression, but in postpartum depression there are several factors at play. Hormonal changes such as levels of estrogen and progesterone increase during pregnancy and these hormones then drop suddenly after delivery, which can affect mood. Mothers who expected to feel happy and blissful after birth are disappointed and confused when they feel much differently because of these biochemical changes.
What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!
Benedetta Osarenk
Our counselors
Click here to view all counselors and therapists.
Other factors may include a difficult birth, doubts about parenting and nursing, difficulties with routines and other mental or medical problems. There are also other causes such as genetic factors, stress, lack of sleep and social influences. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to seek help in order to have the best possible relationship with your child.
You are not alone
Studies have shown that around 15% of the population suffer from postpartum depression (WHO, 2024). Many people do not seek help, so the number of unrecorded cases is probably even higher. It is important for your health and your new baby’s that you seek help if you feel depressed.
Identifying symptoms and signs
The symptoms of postpartum depression are similar to those of ordinary depression, including:
- Sadness and grief: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness or emptiness.
- Loss of pleasure and interest: Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that are normally enjoyable.
- Difficulty sleeping: Difficulty sleeping or, conversely, increased sleepiness.
- Fatigue and loss of energy: Feeling of exhaustion and lack of energy.
- Changes in appetite: Decreased appetite or increased weight loss.
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions: Reduced focus and cognitive challenges.
- Anxiety: Worry, tension or feelings of fear.
- Feelings of guilt or inadequacy: Feelings of being a bad parent or not being enough.
Book a meeting
Fill in the form, choose a counselor and proceed to payment.
Anxiety and postpartum depression
Anxiety often overlaps symptoms of postpartum depression. Life can be more stressful particularly for new mothers due to the combination of major identity shifts and difficulty adjusting to the responsibility of caring for a new baby. Many Lavendla therapists specialize in postpartum anxiety and are ready to help.
Other problems that can occur after childbirth
There are also other mental health problems that can develop after childbirth. These may include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other severe problems such as psychosis. If you experience symptoms of psychosis, such as delusions, hearing voices or sounds, or disturbed thinking, it is important to seek help immediately. You can go to an emergency room or call 911 for help.
Why Lavendla?
Choose your own counselor
Browse and select a counselor based on reviews, area of focus, and education, ensuring you find the perfect match.
45, 60 or 90 min sessions
Choose a 45, 60, or 90-minute session, or a package, providing flexibility and control over the duration and intensity.
Treatment for postpartum depression
Treatment of postpartum depression includes psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. Drug treatment with antidepressants, especially SSRIs, may be carefully considered by the treating physician. Lifestyle changes such as exercise, good sleep, a nutritious diet and stress management are also important. Early intervention and collaboration between the pregnant woman, her family and health care providers are essential to ensure effective treatment and protect the health of both the mother and the baby.
We make the hard things easier
Talking about mental illness is often taboo, but seeking help is an important step in improving your quality of life. Benefits include improved mental health, better work performance, and improved relationships. Many people mistakenly believe that therapy is a sign of weakness or that it is unnecessary. The truth is that it takes strength to seek help and that therapy is a proven method for dealing with mental health problems.
If you or someone you know is at risk of harming themselves or someone else, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
12 frequently asked questions about postpartum depression
What is postpartum depression?
Depression following pregnancy, also called postpartum depression, is a form of clinical depression that can affect mothers during the period following the birth of a child. This type of depression usually occurs within the first few months after delivery, but it can also develop later up until the first year after birth.
What are the most common symptoms?
The most common symptoms include persistent sadness, lack of energy, sleep problems, anxiety, a reduced appetite and feelings of guilt and inadequacy. Consultation with a psychologist or doctor can confirm a diagnosis.
How is postpartum depression diagnosed?
Diagnosing depression is usually done through interviews and questionnaires that assess well being and safety.
How is postpartum depression treated?
Treatment options often include a combination of medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of psychological treatment.
How long does postpartum depression last?
The length of time it takes to recover from depression depends on its severity, which can vary between mild, moderate and severe levels. Some may experience relief within a few weeks, while others need longer treatment.
Is depression hereditary?
Genetics can play a role in depression, but it is usually a combination of several factors such as life events and personal circumstances that contribute to the illness.
What are the risk factors for postpartum depression?
A difficult birth, doubts about parenting and care, difficulties with routines and other mental or medical problems can be risk factors. There are also other causes such as genetics, stress, lack of sleep and social factors.
Can I be depressed as a family member?
Family members can also experience depression as a result of having a child and the changes that come with it. In this case, it is also important to seek help.
How common is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression affects around 15% of the population, but the number of unrecorded cases can be high.
Where can I get help?
If you experience symptoms of depression, it is important to seek professional help. Our psychologists and therapists are available for online sessions and can help you make the hard part easier.
Can exercise help with depression?
Yes, regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and mental health. But it should not replace professional care and medication.
What other mental health problems can occur after childbirth?
You may also experience anxiety or the very serious condition of postpartum psychosis. If there are symptoms of psychosis, you should contact an emergency room or call 911.
Tips for dealing with postpartum depression
Seeking help for depression is a big step, and it is normal to feel unsure about the upcoming process. Here is an overview of the steps usually included in therapy to manage and regulate postpartum depression.
Step 1: Diagnostic evaluation
What this means: The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is usually a diagnostic evaluation in which you review your mental and physical health.
What to expect: Expect questions about your life situation, feelings, thought patterns, and behaviors.
Step 2: Goal setting
What it means: You and your therapist set specific goals for therapy based on your symptoms and circumstances.
What to expect: Discussion about which areas of your life are most affected by your depression and how you would like to change them.
Step 3: Choosing a form of therapy
What it means: Depending on your situation and goals, different forms of therapy may be more or less appropriate.
What to expect: Your therapist will recommend a form of therapy, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) or psychodynamic therapy.
Step 4: Treatment
What it means: This begins the actual treatment phase, where you start working towards the goals you’ve set.
What to expect: Talk therapy, exercises, and perhaps homework assignments aimed at giving you tools to manage and regulate your depression.
Step 5: Follow-up and evaluation
What it means: After a certain period of time, a follow-up is done to see how well the therapy is working.
What to expect: If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.
Step 6: Closing and looking ahead
What it means: As therapy comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on progress and plan for the future.
What to expect: Talk about how you can use the tools and strategies you’ve learned going forward in life.
If you or someone close to you is seeking professional help for depression, do not hesitate to book a session with one of our qualified psychologists or therapists.
Read more
