Having a baby is one of life’s significant changes–whether it’s your first or sixth, it is always an adjustment for your body and your life. Women are very susceptible to depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Because of that, it is essential to tune into yourself and be aware of how your body responds during this time.

There are two significant ways to differentiate between “baby blues” and postpartum depression.

With all the hormonal and lifestyle changes, it is normal to experience fluctuations in your emotions after birth. Fatigue, weeping, anxiety, and stress mixed in with joy and gratitude are normal. These ups and downs usually last about two weeks, and then begin to settle in and feel more stable. These normal fluctuations are what we could classify as “baby blues.”

If those symptoms continue after two weeks, even if they are mild, they are then considered an indication of postpartum depression (PPD). PPD is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, disconnection, and overwhelm.

If, at any point postpartum, you feel that your symptoms are interfering with everyday life, then it is time to talk to a doctor.

Do you struggle with getting out of bed, caring for yourself and the baby, and/or interacting with others? Do you have thoughts of harming the baby? Do you feel indifferent to the baby? If you answer yes to any of those questions at any point postpartum (even within those first two weeks), then you have postpartum depression (PPD).

This does not mean you have somehow failed as a mother. It is not a cause for shame. It simply means that your body’s response to giving birth is causing you difficulty–and it is a difficulty that can be treated and overcome.

Start by talking with your regular family provider or OB.

Did you know that failing to treat PPD can make it worse and longer-lasting? Rather than enduring longer, I encourage you to go to your physician with your concerns as soon as they arise.

Begin by discussing your symptoms and problems with your doctor and following their recommendations. Most likely, that will include medication. Taking medication if your doctor feels it is necessary is okay, not a cause for shame or an indication of failure. Your body has been on a hormonal roller-coaster as you experienced the changes of pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Those hormone fluctuations can create a lack of balance in the normal chemical makeup of your brain. Taking medication does not mean you have done something wrong or that you will be on it long-term. It just means those chemicals must be readjusted to return to normal levels.

Find a therapist to talk to.

Many professionals are trained to help women through this difficult time. Find someone you are comfortable with who can see you regularly through that first transition.

Rely on the support of friends and family.

Many of your friends and family members have experienced these feelings after having a baby or know someone who has. It is nothing to be ashamed of. Their love and support can be a great anchor for you right now.

Learn about postpartum depression, and find stories from other women who have struggled through it.

Recognizing that you are not the only one helps with some of the feelings of shame that commonly accompany PPD. It also helps shed some light and perspective on the temporariness of the situation. Both of these things can help give you some hope and relief.

Finally, if you have experienced these symptoms after one pregnancy, be aware that your risk factors increase for subsequent pregnancies.

Related Article: 6 ways to Support Your Wife During Labor

Learn more about postpartum depression:

Postpartum Support International

Online PPD Support Group

Postpartum Wellness Coalition

Post Partum Progress Blog

Celebrities who have spoken out about PPD