How Do I Know if it’s the “Baby Blues” or Postpartum Depression?

Lunea Admin
Aug 27
2 min read

Updated: Oct 10

Not sure if it’s the baby blues or postpartum depression? Learn the key differences, symptoms, and when to seek professional help.

What Are the “Baby Blues”?

The baby blues affect up to 80% of new mothers in the first two weeks after birth. They are driven by hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and the stress of caring for a newborn.Typical baby blues symptoms include:

• Tearfulness

• Irritability

• Mood swings

• Feeling overwhelmed

These feelings usually resolve on their own within 1–2 weeks and don’t require medical treatment.

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is different. It affects 1 in 7 mothers in Australia and doesn’t just 'go away'. Symptoms may start anytime in the first year after birth.

Signs of PPD include:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness

• Loss of interest in things you usually enjoy

• Intense anxiety or panic• Difficulty bonding with your baby

• Withdrawal from friends and family

• Appetite or sleep changes beyond what’s expected

• Thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby

How to Tell the Difference

Below is a comparison table to help distinguish baby blues from postpartum depression:

Feature	Baby Blues	Postpartum Depression
Onset	Within first few days after birth	Usually within 6 weeks, but up to 1 year postpartum
Duration	Resolves in < 2 weeks	Lasts > 2 weeks, often months
Severity	Mild, manageable	Moderate to severe, impacts functioning
Symptoms	Tearfulness, irritability	Persistent low mood, anxiety, bonding difficulties
Impact	You can still care for yourself and baby	Daily life and relationships disrupted

Risk Factors for PPD

Higher risk if you have:• Previous depression or anxiety• Birth trauma or complications• Lack of social support• Stressful life events• Hormonal sensitivity (history of PMDD or perinatal depression).

Why Getting Help Matters

Untreated postpartum depression affects mothers (risk of chronic illness), babies (bonding, development), and families (relationship stress). Early treatment improves recovery for both mother and baby.

Treatment Options

Treatment may include:• Therapy: CBT, interpersonal therapy, trauma-informed care• Medication: Antidepressants safe for breastfeeding when needed• Lifestyle & Support: Sleep strategies, practical help, support groups• Psychiatry: Essential for severe or treatment-resistant cases.

👉 Visit our Postpartum Psychiatry service page:

👉 Book an appointmen t with a Lunea psychiatrist:

When to Seek Help Immediately

Seek immediate help if:• Symptoms persist beyond two weeks• You feel unable to care for yourself or baby• You experience thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby