After the joy of having a new baby, postpartum depression can set in about 10 of mothers and new parents may not be quite aware of the symptoms or causes.

Some new mothers will begin to experience the feeling of sadness or exhaustion that can extend longer than the normal baby blues. This is a real and true type of depression that is brought on by childbirth and is called postpartum depression.

New parents may recognize this as it sets in about 2 ” 3 weeks after childbirth. The feelings a new mom may experience are feelings of sadness, despair, discouragement, hopelessness, worthlessness and she may cry a lot. She may have trouble concentrating and feel a loss of appetite. She may feel not bonded to her baby and feel very indifferent about the birth. Feelings of being overwhelmed without hope that things get better and not feeling happy at all are things that a new mom may feel.

If these feelings last a long period of time, or all day long, it is advisable to call the doctor and see what he can do to help. When treated properly, postpartum depression will go away and a new mom will begin to feel much better. Some treatments may involve therapy, medications, or sometimes both. Rest and exercise are also helpful in treating postpartum depression.Want to know more? Go ahead: Postpartum Depression Isn’t ‘Just Hormones’