13-2 Postpartum depression
If these symptoms become more intense and longer lasting and interfere with her ability to care for the baby, your partner may be suffering from a more severe postpartum depression. According to womenshealth.gov it occurs in about 1 to 4 out of every 1,000 births and can begin anytime within the first year after childbirth.
Signs and symptom of postpartum depression can include
* Eating too little or too much
* Sleeping too little or too much
* Intense irritability and anger
* Overwhelming fatigue
* Crying a lot
* Lack of joy in life
* Feelings of shame, guilt or inadequacy
* Severe mood swings
* Difficulty bonding with the baby
* Withdrawal from the baby, family and friends
* Thoughts of harming herself or the baby
For more information see the womenshealth.org FAQ (will open in a new browser window). Postpartum depression is a serious and dangerous problem that requires professional intervention. You cannot manage this problem on your own. Get help from a counselor immediately.