In those first few weeks after giving birth, everyone around you might expect you to be glowing with happiness and soaking in the joy of motherhood, but inside you might feel like you’re unravelling. If that’s how you’re feeling now, please know you’re not alone. What you’re going through might not just be the “baby blues”, it could be Postpartum Depression (PPD) and it’s more common than people realise.

What is PPD and Why Does it Happen?

PPD is a mental health condition that can develop after childbirth, and it affects around 1 in 7 mothers. Unlike the mild “baby blues” that fade after a week or two, PPD sticks around and it can seriously interfere with your ability to function and bond with your baby.

There are multiple causes of PPD. It often occurs when there are several interconnected factors that increase a mother’s vulnerability to it.

Hormonal Shifts

After giving birth, a woman’s hormone levels (especially oestrogen and progesterone) plummet rapidly. These hormones don’t just regulate reproductive functions, they also play a role in stabilising mood and supporting brain chemistry.

Sleep Deprivation

Newborns don’t come with sleep schedules. Many mothers go days, weeks or months without a full night’s rest. Chronic sleep deprivation affects concentration, emotional regulation and can heighten feelings of despair, anxiety or detachment.

Physical Recovery

Giving birth is a physically demanding experience. Healing from stitches, surgery, tearing or complications can be painful and exhausting. Many mothers feel like strangers in their own bodies.

Unrealistic Expectations

Movies, social media and even family often paint motherhood as blissful and instinctive. When reality doesn’t match the idealised image, guilt or shame can follow.

Lack of Support

Support includes emotional validation, help with chores, time to rest, and financial stability. Without this, mothers are at greater risk for PPD.

How Do New Mothers Describe Their Symptoms of PPD?

If you aren’t sure whether what you’re experiencing is PPD, here are some signs many women report:

1. “I felt numb, like I was going through the motions.”
   Detachment and lack of emotion, even toward the baby.
2. “I cried constantly, and I didn’t even know why.”
   Frequent, unexplained crying is a common sign.
3. “I felt like a failure as a mom.”
   Intense guilt, shame or inadequacy despite trying your best.
4. “I couldn’t sleep, even when the baby slept.”
   Insomnia or disturbed sleep beyond normal newborn disruptions.
5. “Everything felt overwhelming, even getting out of bed.”
   Exhaustion and low motivation to do everyday tasks.
6. “I didn’t feel bonded to my baby. I thought something was wrong with me.”
   Difficulty connecting with your baby, often with deep emotional pain.
7. “I was terrified something bad would happen.”
   Intrusive anxious thoughts or irrational fears.
8. “I thought my family would be better off without me.”
   Severe hopelessness or suicidal thoughts—seek help immediately if you feel this way.

If you recognise these symptoms in yourself or someone else, support is essential.

How to Get Help for PPD and Why It’s Brave to Do So

Getting help might feel scary, but it’s one of the most courageous things you can do for yourself and your baby. Here are several options:

Counselling or Therapy

Having a safe, supportive space just for you can help you gain tools and coping skills.

Medication

Antidepressants can be safe and effective, even while breastfeeding. Your doctor can guide you.

Support Groups

Connecting with others going through similar challenges helps you feel less alone. SADAG offers excellent options.

Partner and Family Involvement

Loved ones may not know what you’re going through unless you tell them. Open conversations can speed up healing.