Q. What was the first occurrence that made you realize you were developing post partum depression?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
The first occurrence that made me realize I was developing postpartum depression was when I found myself unable to muster any excitement or joy about the birth of my baby. While I had anticipated a rush of maternal love and happiness, I was instead overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, emptiness, and a sense of disconnect. As the days went on, these emotions didn't lift – they only deepened.
I started avoiding social interactions, even with close friends and family, and felt an overwhelming sense of guilt for not feeling the way I thought I should. My sleep patterns became disrupted, and I was either unable to sleep when the baby slept or found myself sleeping excessively. The exhaustion took a toll on my ability to think clearly or make even simple decisions.
The turning point was when I had a particularly intense moment of feeling utterly helpless and hopeless. I looked at my baby, and instead of feeling the overwhelming love I thought I should be feeling, I felt an intense wave of anxiety and despair. It was in that moment that I knew something wasn't right – that my feelings were more than just "baby blues."
I confided in my partner about what I was experiencing, and they encouraged me to seek help. Speaking to a healthcare provider, I learned that what I was going through was postpartum depression. It was a mix of relief and apprehension to put a name to what I was feeling. Recognizing it was the first step in seeking the support and treatment I needed to navigate through this challenging period.
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