After childbirth, many women experience sadness, anxiety, and emotional sensitivity, often due to hormonal shifts and the pressures of caring for a newborn. Master, Doctor Pham Van Duong, from the Department of General Internal Medicine at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, states that if these negative emotions persist, they may signal postpartum depression.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports approximately 340 million people globally experience depression, with at least 15% showing symptoms at some point, particularly postpartum. In Vietnam, studies indicate postpartum depression affects 11-33% of mothers, often starting within the first four weeks after delivery. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for mothers to receive timely treatment.

Prolonged sadness and loss of interest

A typical sign of postpartum depression is a persistent feeling of sadness, emptiness, or despair. Mothers often lose interest in previously enjoyed activities, even caring for or interacting with their child. They may feel indifferent or distant from their baby, intensifying feelings of guilt and self-blame.

Doctor Duong examining and providing psychological counseling to a postpartum woman. *Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Sleep and eating disturbances

Sleep disturbances are often severe for those with postpartum depression. Mothers may find themselves unable to sleep or, conversely, sleeping too much yet still feeling tired and sluggish.

Eating habits also change markedly. Some mothers lose their appetite and experience rapid weight loss, while others eat unusually large amounts as an emotional coping mechanism. These changes impact a mother's health, affecting postpartum recovery and breast milk quality.

Fatigue and reduced concentration

Exhaustion and a lack of energy are common complaints among women with postpartum depression. Simple daily tasks become overwhelming, accompanied by reduced concentration and memory, which increases feelings of helplessness and anxiety. Many mothers perceive themselves as "bad mothers" or "incapable of caring for their child," despite their best efforts.

Emotional outbursts

Many individuals with postpartum depression experience excessive anxiety. They may fear their child will fall ill, suffer an accident, or that something negative is imminent. Some mothers constantly check on their child, reluctant to leave them even for short periods. They might become irritable and easily angered with their spouse, relatives, or even the baby. These emotional outbursts often lead to feelings of guilt and shame, prompting withdrawal and avoidance of communication.

Feelings of guilt and worthlessness

Persistent guilt is a key indicator distinguishing postpartum depression from common psychological difficulties. Mothers often blame themselves for not having a healthy baby, insufficient breast milk, or simply for "not being as happy as everyone thinks." Many women fall into despair, viewing their future as bleak and without escape. They lose faith in themselves and in life, feeling like a burden to their family.

Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby

In severe cases, postpartum depression may involve fleeting or recurrent negative thoughts, including self-harm or harming the baby.

Doctor Duong emphasizes that these thoughts are an urgent warning sign, requiring immediate medical and psychological support to ensure the safety of both mother and child. Postpartum women should consult a reputable hospital if symptoms of sadness, anxiety, and fatigue persist for over two weeks. Postpartum depression treatment involves psychological counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and family support. In some cases, medication may be necessary under a doctor's guidance.

Thanh Ba