This is a post for our More than Baby Blues series. Pin this story to Pinterest! Up to 80% of all moms have symptoms of Baby Blues during the first weeks after childbirth. With all our hormones going crazy, it's no wonder! Baby Blues is most often categorized by short-term random crying, anxiety and fatigue to name a few symptoms. Its symptoms often overlap with other postpartum mental illnesses, so how do we know what is *really* going on in our own heads? There are a few key signs to look out for in the first few weeks to determine if you or your loved one might have Baby Blues or something more. Lasting no more than two weeks, Baby Blues is just that: The "blues." A parent dealing with Baby Blues will still be able to enjoy their new baby and think clearly (as much as the lack of sleep will allow with a newborn). A parent wanders into the territory of "something more" when symptoms persist longer than two weeks or sooner if they creep into the functioning of every day life activities. Serious symptoms such as thoughts of harm and hallucinations should be addressed immediately. It's imperative that you are honest with yourself and your loved ones about thoughts you might be having so you can get the needed help as soon as possible. I am a give-it-to-me-straight kinda girl and I realized there were no side-by-side charts to differentiate disorders from one another, especially Baby Blues. Sure, you could search and search online like I did to get a somewhat decent glimpse of all six disorders and Baby Blues. But hopefully, this guide is a little easier to understand. Please remember that you should always seek the advice of a counselor and/or doctor in regards to diagnosis and treatment. It is normal to not have every symptom in a disorder. It is also normal to have more than one at once. If you suspect you might be suffering from more than Baby Blues, go talk to a professional. You are not alone. You are normal! As my mom always says: "It's the crazy ones who don't seek help!" If you would like a copy of the PDF file for this chart (better quality, great for clients and local families!), comment below or e-mail me and I'll send it to you. What do you think? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! References:
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10 Comments
3/1/2013 05:10:38 pm
Great post! This is very informative and great for all those Mamas that are going through this. I really like the spreadsheet and I know this will help many that are looking for answers.
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3/1/2013 08:04:08 pm
Jennifer you are such a wonderful person, you are touching so many people with your blog.
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3/1/2013 11:25:19 pm
Great post with lots of great information! I also think that what you are doing with this blog is great! Woman in these situations often have niwhere to turn, you have given them an outlet.
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3/3/2013 05:59:48 am
Not enough women feel able to talk about PPD without being ashamed still. I had PPD and ended up needing meds. I was able to continue breastfeeding my daughter, but did get quite a bit of judgement.
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3/3/2013 08:26:48 pm
What a great, comprehensive list. You're putting out great information for mothers!
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3/3/2013 08:45:31 pm
I love the chart! This info needs to be everywhere for moms to see! And I love what your mom said about it's the crazy ones who don't get help!
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andre
3/4/2013 12:07:04 pm
Would you please e-mail the PDF of this symptom guide? I'd greatly appreciate it..
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3/4/2013 12:43:34 pm
Hi Andre! I'd love to. What is your email address?
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4/12/2013 07:55:25 pm
Hi! What a great chart. I am training to be a postpartum doula and this is definitely an useful chart for such a difficult topic. Thanks for this! (my other website is www.peterboroughpostpartumdoula.blogspot.ca)
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