Postpartum Depression - What it Really Looks Like

What Postpartum Depression Really Looks Like. This is part one of a series I’m doing on women’s mental health topics.
This video is based on a viewer question from Dr. Mohammed El Sherif who is a obstetrician gynecologist with his own KZbin Channel. He wanted me to help his viewers understand Postpartum depression.
Perinatal depression refers to depression that occurs before, during and after pregnancy. During pregnancy it is called antenatal depression and anytime within 4-6 weeks after giving birth it’s called postpartum depression. Many more women develop baby blues which is mostly sadness, irritability and sleeping problems, but baby blues resolve within the first 10 days.
Postpartum depression has a deeper level of sadness, hopelessness or worthlessness. and trouble functioning and lasts much longer. The symptoms can last weeks to months. For some women this can be the start of a recurring illness that comes back in the future and lasts for months or years.
The depression that can happen postpartum, generally has the same symptoms as a depression that’s not related to pregnancy. This would be symptoms like depressed mood, poor appetite, poor sleep - and this poor sleep would look like trouble sleeping when your baby is sleeping. You can also have irritability, decreased appetite and suicidality. These symptoms can show up in the first 72 hours after you give birth. So it can come on fast.
In this video, I discuss what causes postpartum depression and what are some of the risk factors. In another video, I discuss how we treat postpartum depression.
Want to know more about mental health and self-improvement? On this channel I discuss topics such as bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder (ADHD), relationships and personal development/self-improvement. If you don’t want to miss a video, click here to subscribe. goo.gl/DFfT33
References
Marlene P. Freeman, Paul E. Keck, Jr., And Susan L. Mcelroy. Postpartum Depression With Bipolar Disorder. American Journal of Psychiatry 2001 158:4, 652-652
Ellen Leibenluft, M.D., and Kimberly A. Yonkers, M.D. The Ties That Bind: Maternal-Infant Interactions and the Neural Circuitry of Postpartum Depression. American Journal of Psychiatry Vol 167, Issue 1101 Nov 2010
Feldman R, Granat A, Pariente C, Kanety H, Kunit J, Gilboa-Schechtman E: Maternal depression and anxiety across the postpartum year and infant social engagement, fear regulation, and stress reactivity. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2009; 48:919-927
Park M, Brain U, Grunau RE, Diamond A, Oberlander TF. Maternal depression trajectories from pregnancy to 3 years postpartum are associated with children's behavior and executive functions at 3 and 6 years. Arch Womens Ment Health. 2018 Jun; 21(3):353-363. Epub 2018 Jan 16.
Evans J, Melotti R, Heron J, Ramchandani P, Wiles N, Murray L, Stein A. The timing of maternal depressive symptoms and child cognitive development: a longitudinal study. J Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2012 Jun; 53(6):632-40. Epub 2011 Dec 23.
Disclaimer: All of the information on this channel is for educational purposes and not intended to be specific/personal medical advice from me to you. Watching the videos or getting answers to comments/question, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. If you have your own doctor, perhaps these videos can help prepare you for your discussion with your doctor.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Part two of this video will publish on Friday.

[@Eithereal1217]

Thank you so much 💗

[@lleange363]

i am dealing of the the guilt of not enjoying my baby girl.. i hated her i did not take pics of her now i realized that and i feel guilty :( i hate myself... until now

[@theotherway1639]

The book "30 Days to Reduce Depression" by Harper Daniels was also a huge help.

[@MG-qh1qi]

I wish someone would talk about PPD from an experience mom or older mom perspective. Some of the reassurance in this video would have been encouraging as a new youngerom but now at 40 on the 4th child it seems cliche and honestly a bit condescending...of course new babies are hard as a mom of 4 I know that. So much postpartum advice is written to new moms, I wish we could peel back the layers and talk to older, experience moms too. 😔

[@dianet3994]

when I had my daughter a year-and-a-half ago, I thought I was having baby blues but after watching this video I realized that baby blues don't last longer than 10 days so I most definitely had postpartum depression. I felt like I didn't or couldn't feel love for her until she was six months. Before that it just felt like work that I wasn't sure I should have signed up for. Thanks for the informative video. 💛

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Diane. I'm glad you got past it. 🙂

[@sazzlepop321]

I feel this way

[@Lily-gz3ip]

@@sazzlepop321 how are you know?

[@maryavanunnery8240]

Your getting to know your baby. It’s ok. So much expectations to be super human! Would drive anyone crazy

[@KYMom23]

I'm very sorry you went thru this, 🙏🏻✝️💔😢 I too am currently going thru this & had to be medicated I would yell & scream & had very negative thoughts,/ crying spells. taking care of her has been rough because she has multiple medical issues & currently going thru physical therapy & has colic, plus teething & recently has to wear a helmet due to head malformation, which she HATES! & Screams the whole time it's on.. parenting is so rough 🙈 especially when I gotta clean ect but the Lord has helped us in many ways & shes 6 months old now & sleeps better. We changed her formula 7 times before we found her permanent formula... but a child is like the song that NEVER ends😂😂😂❤. She's a booger. But definitely a keeper!😁😁

[@CA-vv6tv]

This video brought me to tears. I too had postpartum depression it was so bad that I resented my child until he was about 4. Everything you said I felt and I believe it greatly impacted my son because he has ASD and still hasn’t learned to speak. I just want to say if you are suffering get help. I didn’t start treatment until my son was about four and these days I appreciate all the special things about him. I wish I could go back in time but I can’t. Please please get help sooner than later for you and your babies sake ❤️

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thank you CA. Im sure that will be helpful for people. I’m so sorry you had that painful experience. I wish the best for you and your son.

[@newnormal92]

I'm dealing with this now, my daughter just turned 6 weeks old today, and I'm struggling a lot. Everything you said I've been feeling. I already have MDD & GAD, so tbh I was kinda expecting to experience PPD, too. I've been pretty much loving off of caffeine cause without it all I wanna do is lay in the bed all day & I obviously can't do that. Idk what to do anymore but I'm tired of feeling miserable & feeling like I don't wanna connect with her, cause it's not her fault..

[@HeisiValkas]

I had severe postpartum depression to the point I had thoughts of wanting to harm myself and my baby. Of course, I feel a heavy guilt with such thoughts. I reached out immediately to receive the help I needed.

[@anniemulkins6551]

Hopefully things are better with you now. I suffered postpartum depression tto and during my worst days I was willing to give up my son and just wanted to end my life.

[@tamannasvlog2182]

How did you recovary from this???

[@Megasuss]

Literally teared up when you mentioned “ putting a fake smile “ motherhood is hard, but I know it’ll get better 🤍

[@aquarius2284]

I'm 4 years postpartum and still depression and anxiety rule most of my days. I always suffered from generalized anxiety, but after having a baby it turned into times 1000. I wasn't prepared. I didn't have my tank full to prepare me for motherhood. Who knew.

[@bobbyholland8160]

Depression is a mind set. I’ve felt with depression my self. But it’s a mind set. You have to get out and find joy. Maybe sun light, maybe a day just doing what you would like with the family, or just thinking about things other than dark thoughts.

[@greattribulation3759]

@@bobbyholland8160I’m assuming you’re a male due to your name. I don’t think you get it.

[@Aparna.S93]

I feel like u r talking about me. I feel the exact same thing. I already had anxiety but when i had my daughter like 4 months back everything just multiplied. I have beautiful innocent soul in front of me to which i cannot connect just because everywhere i read she and i are incompatible zodiacs ( Cancer and Sagittarius) The more i try to research on this the more depressed i feel. I want to be there for her, be her best friend but i just can't as i assume that my level of nurturing and deep love would be too much for her.

[@mutestingray]

Postpartum depression is one of those things you always hear about, but to know what it is and how it manifests itself is very interesting; thanks!

[@RaethePhoenix]

This is very important! This is why I was concerned with having a child! OMG.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You’re welcome RC

[@sydneymcmillian]

It be like that😔

[@sunset33533]

The mindfulness book "30 Days to Reduce Depression" by Harper Daniels is a good resource.

[@Aparna.S93]

​@@sunset33533i will try that. Thanku for the comment. I'm desperately searching for anything and everything that can help me get out of this phase. I already had anxiety but when i had my daughter like 4 months back everything just multiplied. I have beautiful innocent soul in front of me to which i cannot connect just because everywhere i read she and i are incompatible zodiacs ( Cancer and Sagittarius) The more i try to research on this the more depressed i feel. I want to be there for her, be her best friend but i just can't as i assume that my level of nurturing and deep love would be too much for her. I wish someone could give me deeper insights on this. I will try the book that u have suggested if it is available here and see if it makes any difference.

[@SirParcifal]

Being codpendent and not having near family support doesn't help either lol... I had anxiety and depression during pregnancy - because two years before I had my son I was pregnant and miscarried... and then my father died two weeks later - two months later we lost my husband's father, and then three months later my husbands mother died.... we got slammed hard the two years before my son came... so then we went for infertility issues (* I was put on letrozole) and I got pregnant. I was so scared being pregnant - worried if the baby was going to make it to fullterm - afraid to see the miscarriage if it happened again... afraid that something would be wrong with my baby - and thank God - my son is perfect.... I have ups and downs - but I love my son and he is my favorite pain in the ass!!!

[@anniemulkins6551]

Having a good family support is always a bonus and I hear you because I did not get that when I had my 2 boys. Sorry to hear for your losses

[@natashafarrow9552]

I had postnatal depression to always tearful I had two misscaraiges befor my son broke my heart, I didn't enjoy being pregnant fear of misscarrying again, my son was born not breathing strangled by cord resus for 10 minute befor he came back, treated horrible by member of the staff, I was put on a ward why my baby was in icu hearing other women's babys crying, was very hard when I did get to hold him i was scared of him

[@janets7291]

Dr. Marks, I wish every depressed new mom could hear and believe what you said between 5:39 and 6:07. It would have been so helpful for me when I was depressed.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Yes I wish they put it in a pamphlet and give it to moms on their way out the door so they can see they’re not the only person who feels that way.

[@notapplicable7625]

I developed postpartum depression after both pregnancies. Both of my children went on to later be diagnosed with autism. I, myself, was also diagnosed with autism and bipolar 1. I'm not sure if the bipolar came before or after my pregnancies but I did not experience my first apparent mania until years after giving birth. What you described about the more subtle effects of PPD is spot on. Another thing I learned is that OCD-like intrusive thoughts are a common symptom of PPD. Eight years after the birth of my first son, I still feel guilty and ashamed for some of my thoughts during that time. I also did not know to seek help the first time and my son and I suffered greatly because of it. He was a difficult newborn and he cried all of the time. He was diagnosed with severe reflux which exacerbated his crying which in turn, made my intrusive thoughts worse. I am now in treatment but suffice it to say, his and my relationship has taken years to rebuild due to the damage of untreated postpartum depression.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Oh Naturead what a tough road you've had! I can only imagine what your struggle must've been like with those thoughts. I kind of alluded to that when I talked about looking at your baby and feeling angry. I held back from being too specific I guess because I didn't want to make the video too raw. It really is a tough topic on a lot of levels. But now that you bring this up I may make another video about the obsessional thoughts. Thanks for sharing your experience..

[@elizabethscott3048]

❤️

[@cgpxae2119]

Damn U gave the whole fam fucked up brains

[@cats4992]

Started my treatment for PPD. Thank you so much for sharing this information being a new mom and dealing with these hormones are tough. We can get through it though and women need to speak about this more often. We are normal and just navigating this new change in life. Dealing with the shame and guilt can feel heavy but I am so thankful I am in therapy and getting the help I need. Ladies we are strong and beautiful and we will all get through this.

[@WickedLove2016]

I never hated my baby but I had really bad feelings like my life was over but I loved my son and was happy having him.just going back to my hormones before being pregnant my body and mind could not handle it

[@anniemulkins6551]

Mine was different. I felt very tortured and I blamed my baby and all I wanted was to have my normal life back. It was a horrible feeling.

[@sarahgracenadeau]

Me too. I love him so much and I feel so guilty for feeling so depressed and that just makes me feel worse. I'm 2 weeks postpartum and having such a hard time :(

[@angelinacc4206]

Thank you so much for this video. I was hopeing while I was pregnant i wouldn’t be one who has ppd. But now I cry throughout the day. I feel less loved from family and my husband. I feel like the world is crashing on me I feel hopeless lost like I just wanna lie down and give up. It sucks because I don’t want to be this way.

[@rarediamondblackqueen2253]

This is literally how I feel with family and my husband and everything else word from word. I hope you feel better soon.

[@angelinacc4206]

@@rarediamondblackqueen2253 like wise hon 🤞🏼

[@briannathomas8551]

Wow I feel this way . I just want to give up and lay down . I feel like nobody understands me

[@delicatedile7860]

Can you tell how are you now ?because I have the same issue

[@angelinacc4206]

@@delicatedile7860 currently in my life now I’m much better. Mentally and emotionally I’m doing way better. But back than I didn’t seek professional help. I could have saved myself a lot of sadness and arguments with my significant other. It took 2 years for me to finally feel like myself again. I hope you do whatever you can to feel better. I wish I had done more for myself to feel better. I pray theses day and it makes my soul feel replenish. I hope you’re doing okay. 💜

[@DrMohamedElSherif]

Dear Dr. Tracy, I have been waiting :) I hope you the best, Mohamed Elsherif

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks for the suggestion! And thanks for your patience. Part 2 is friday.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Dr. Mohamed El-Sherif I was hoping more of your audience would see this video. I haven’t seen many people watch via the Arabic captions. What about sharing it on your community tab?

[@jazminjnee2238]

The sad part is she has the sound of babies crying in the background of a postpartum depression video. I’m a little triggered and have what feels like PTSD at a newborn’s cry 😭😩 like I feel twitchy, make it stopp pleasee

[@marcellusrobinson1465]

I know exactly how you feel. I just can’t with the crying 😿

[@wickedrose6746]

I know! I cringed and had to turn the volume down… I was not ready for that!

[@feliciabuckle6847]

People don't understand why I would rather die than have another baby. I know a second time round would destroy me.

[@violetmarlo2978]

I really appreciate how clearly you explained this!

[@vezinam58]

This is a great topic Dr. Marks. So many Women deal with this condition, and need to have an understanding not only what’s happening, but that there’s help for them. It’s sad that the joy that can be felt from having a Child can be robbed by this condition when not treated.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thank you Mark. You’re absolutely right. And it is a really tough issue to deal with on a lot of levels.

[@janets7291]

Dr. Marks, thank you SO MUCH for this video. There really has to be more discussion about post partum depression as it is so debilitating and can have such dire consequences for the mother, the baby and the family as a whole. I was hospitalized with post partum depression with my second child. I consider myself lucky to be alive. Support for the mother and baby is so important, and is something I missed out on. I'm looking forward to the rest of this series.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Jan. I'm so thankful you got the help you needed after your second child. Friday's video talks about treatment. Then my third video in the series is on premenstrual dysphoric disorder. That should come towards the end of the month.

[@fredericmoresmau4303]

Cosy you need to have sex as we all know for half a decade there is no seed happening here..... Nobody is interested in me.... And people ignore me so......

[@fredericmoresmau4303]

Second women have to judge you non narcissistic which they don't so no female has the mere thought of surrender a minute with me so....... Futile.... You hang with guys..... And then they say you may be gay.....

[@janets7291]

@@DrTraceyMarks Hi Dr. Marks, my grand daughter was born on Monday. I am feeling echos of the post partum depression I had so many years ago. It's strange how you can feel the same helplessness and inadequacy when holding your grandchild as you did holding your own baby. Luckily I saw my therapist yesterday and I'm staying on top of this. Thanks again for your original video.

[@christydennis751]

This happened to me after I gave birth; I still struggle with it and my son will be 15 in june. I think I was bipolar before I even got pregnant

[@mariaduran6740]

Same thi g happened to me. My daughter will be 13 in a couple weeks.

[@iceveangels]

It’s been very difficult having the depressive symptoms and trying desperately to make sense of it myself 10 months ago because nowhere I search seems to talk about it. It makes me feel insane and I continue to feel that way now and then. Apart from mental effects there are also physical effects and they both have been lingering for more than 8 months. Because I couldn’t figure out what was happening to me, my mental health and physical health has gone down and removes me from being myself and feeling capable of living, I seriously damaged my relationship and this becomes an ongoing loop and i realize gives me a lot of symptoms of borderline personality disorder. My mental health has never been so bad in my life ever since pregnancy. I deeply appreciate this video and feel like i’m on my way to actually managing my health and ability to live life to its fullest

[@thePassionatePK]

Thanks for being real with your comment. You expressed exactly what I am feeling. My baby is 9 months old and I still am having very bad problems with this.

[@leann5742]

It's so sad mental health problems are so stigmatized that I turned down my phone volume when watching this video because I didn't want anyone to judge me.

[@Aparna.S93]

I also went into the room and closed the door before playing the video. 😢

[@dee5716]

😢😢 Hope your feeling better now.

[@rawwithcrys9847]

Omg I’m doing this now 😣

[@FirstNameLastNameOnly]

I can't believe you published this just in time for the Royal baby's delivery! Perfect timing. Hopefully, Megan will get a chance to watch! :)

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Oh yes what a coincidence. And did you see where the four of them are launching a mobile mental health service? That will be great for everyone as it continues to emphasize the importance of mental health

[@theresamccormick-dunlap8383]

Hello Dr. Marks! Thank you so much for your high quality videos. You were a very important and instrumental component of my preparation for the ASWB be national exam. I wondered if you could do a video on the effects of menopause? I am a clinical therapist , currently working on my for licensure and often have women in my office dealing with these issues. Thank you in advance for your help!

[@wtf8020]

Bingo!! I had a really hard time connecting with my son and Im bipolar... I would give anything to be able to re do it all. I wasnt angry I was just disconnected. He has a great dad that took on alot...

[@wordington123]

Hi! I experienced post partpum OCD and was never told anything about it and it left me paralyzed with fear. I also had thyroid cancer and had two thyriodectomies within 3 months of having my newborn. I think a lot of it had to do with my thyroid issues. Thanks for the video :)

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome!

[@valkyrie8306]

Dr. Marks, I love your work. Can you address some of the mental changes that okay with perimenopause and menopause? I really have difficulty finding any valid information.

[@alexispellerin5500]

Hi Dr, Would you be able to do a video specifically on Post Partum Psychosis?? I was recently diagnosed with this after my first/only pregnancy being twins, while dealing with the abusive behavior of their father. Not to discredit anything you said in this video, but I dont feel as if you explained this illness as it really is. It isnt always about a mother being suicidal, or homicidal towards the baby, or anyone else. I just feel like this isnt an illness many people are aware of, and maybe elaborating on it more would also ease the other women struggling with this disorder. Thank you :)

[@r.w7351]

Had no idea about baby blues or ppd and then got told straight to my face from my MIL that I have it but gave no ways to help fight it, still trying to fight it to this day and I’m due with my 3rd in March.

[@laurengould746]

I was diagnosed with MDD and mood swings in 2015 after having a major mental breakdown. I was almost 18 years old. My depression would fluctuate throughout the years. I struggled with years of treatment. I tried 3 different antidepressants when i could afford the visits to the doctor. I knew i was getting depressed again when i pregnant. Maybe all the hormones. Idk. But i had my baby last july by c section and it was the hardest thing ive ever went through. I would cry all the time. I didnt know what i was doing. Finally i went back to get on something. And the medicine helps. I actually feel closer to my baby boy and i dont really cry and shut out the world as bad as i use to. Im less irritable. Im less mean.

[@elvistawa7395]

I think am depressed coz I just hate doing everything

[@brianaaitcheson5694]

Every words in this video speaks alot... which am going through rn.

[@Aparna.S93]

Hi. How are u feeling now?

[@synestheticview]

Love this! Can you please do a video on managing bipolar during pregnancy without medication?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks for the suggestion. I’ll see what I can come up with.

[@BeingBetter]

I have a video on my channel called how to manage bipolar without medication. A few things would have to be modified for pregnancy.

[@kathrinjohnson2582]

Omg thank you so much! No one ever talks about this and is so important to talk about it! You're the best ❤️!!!.Questions though, can blood loss effect this? I wonder if some amount of hemorrhage that's not enough for replacement would leave the mother's brain sort of unbalanced till her blood levels are normally again.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Kathrin! I don't know about a hemorrhage causing this. Maybe if there was brain damage but outside of that I think it would just be a coincidence if a woman became depressed after having a lot of blood loss.

[@kathrinjohnson2582]

@@DrTraceyMarks I can't wait till Friday 😃

[@kathrinjohnson2582]

@@gordythecat I can't even imagine. Im sorry you whet through that. I hope you are doing well now. I watch these videos to try and be informed. I have encountered ppl in close circles that had mental health problems and were very ill advised. Thank you for commenting your story. ❤️

[@ScarletKnight1111]

Yeah I have a baby boy of 2 years…..I’ve done my best to keep him safe

[@Furnfuture_yt]

I suffered 2016 when I gave birth my third child I didn't know what was going on I cry 😢 every single day and after 8 months I got better

[@NikNik0123]

Dr. Marks makes it all make sense.

[@janets7291]

5:58 to 6:06 I'm wondering if this can be applied to other forms of depression. "It's not who you are, you have a thinking problem." You seemed to sum it up right there, and I like how emphatic your words are.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Yes Jan that can apply to depression in general. Some people can become very self loathing and can’t separate out the problem they have from the kind of person they are when they’re well.

[@janets7291]

@@DrTraceyMarks What you've just described is an example of "over-identifying", is that correct? This is all making perfect sense to me, I feel like a piece of my puzzle has fallen into place.:))) Thank you so much!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

@@janets7291 Yes that is over-identifying. I'm glad it's coming together for you. Take care.

[@Bleeding-Heart]

Please do a video pertaining to anxiety and depression during menopause. So many doctors either don't know about it or they refuse to acknowledge it.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Great suggestion. Thanks, I'll add it to my women's mental health series.

[@kathrinjohnson2582]

Good one

[@theotherway1639]

The book "30 Days to Reduce Depression" by Harper Daniels was also a huge help.

[@valerierivera6535]

Can you do a video on Postpartum OCD? l had this almost 11 years ago with my first son and again with my second son. l had no idea what was happening to me the first time. l thought l was going insane. No one l knew ever talked about this which made it really hard for me to seek help.

[@sheilabeila744]

Omgggg yes the little details drive me insane makes me cry idk what’s happening

[@55alive8]

Very informative video.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thank you.

[@WickedLove2016]

I was amazing with my baby just my body had tons of anxiety after having him and having my hormones changing I had tons of lack of sleep to sorry for so many comments love your chennal

[@Evelyn-vv6cs]

How long did your ppd last

[@deesherocksperiod1939]

That’s me now. I’m good with him, but anxiety attacks have my body going through a whirlwind, and now it’s getting unbearable

[@rjreyes4653]

My baby boy is 7 months and I'm depressed 😔 i talk about it to friends and husband but keep it on the mild side because I'm ashamed to say the real truth of what goes on in my mind. I feel like they will think I'm crazy I don't get thoughts of hurting my baby just things like him being a burden instead of a blessing. In the Hispanic community postpartum is looked down on and judged so i don't open up like i should. I do believe it is generic if that is a thing both my sister's experienced PPD as well but never expressed it too much either they fought there battles in silent. I bring it up to one of my sister's once and awhile. I can see how PPD affected her son who will be 4 after watching this video makes sense and makes me sad because it shows she was really going through it and had no one around. I'm scared to do the same to my baby boy and pass on unwanted issues to him because I'm afraid to get help and my mind just thinks things are going to get better on there own.

[@sheirahmae]

I feel you.. same.. I felt this when he was 1 yr old until he was 3 yrs. old

[@lenorbradley8549]

Just had twins a month ago. I never had postpartum. I do have a whole team behind me to help. And l am looking for more help so l don't have to feel this way. I also deal with ADH

[@Bella-ke7pr]

Make sure you have a strong support system

[@kaklayreff8680]

You are so underrated

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thank you Kaklay! 🙂

[@dshannon1038]

The part about baby crying. For my second, after about 3 or 4 months, I couldn't understand the crying. I have a thyroid dysfunction but i can't get help because I can't get/afford insurance... I am living with this for 11 months now.

[@MG-qh1qi]

I wish someone would talk about PPD from an experience mom or older mom perspective. Some of the reassurance in this video would have been encouraging as a new youngerom but now at 40 on the 4th child it seems cliche and honestly a bit condescending...of course new babies are hard as a mom of 4 I know that. So much postpartum advice is written to new moms, I wish we could peel back the layers and talk to older, experience moms too. 😔

[@blueblack3591]

really good informativ video

[@thesmileyeffect]

Thank you for this!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Ebone"

[@jezishshah3149]

I just had my 4th baby and let me tell you.. I didn’t know I was in for a rude awakening 😭

[@vanessazawaski8451]

I was diagnosed with PPD , see a reproductive psychiatrist. I have trouble recognizing my baby. Logically, I know she’s mine. But she looks so foreign to me. I’m worried about psychosis. But my doctor and therapist says no. I don’t know what causes this.

[@lindasmith9273]

Thanks so much

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Linda!

[@samanthafletcher3648]

I wish you wouldnt add the crying baby sound affection

[@bethanywood6812]

I'm wondering, can postpartum depression have a delayed onset? Because I began struggling with my first child only when he was 6 months old. I felt numb and detached. But maybe that was sleep deprivation as he barely slept longer than an hour or two together at night and only half hour naps in the day.

[@dalilacontreras446]

Thank you

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome!

[@albinahoca]

I need someone to talk, I’m Not ok, I don’t have no one. Please ladies if u a at the same situation let me know, let’s talk

[@albinahoca]

@@Aparna.S93 I start sessions with psychologist, Feel lil bit better. And what abt u?

[@Aparna.S93]

@@albinahoca i could finally relax and understand that it was all due to postpartum depression that i felt this way.. i too am seeing a therapist.. i feel a lot better now

[@kimboslice1356]

Do symptoms of PPD also include rage and anxiety?

[@amberlenalovescats2160]

Yes

[@melissahubble2305]

Is there one for depression while pregnant? My Dr kind of guilted me about my use of Lexapro and wellbutrin in pregnancy even though she and my psychiatrist were OK with this the first 5 months.

[@msgooodie2shoe_shar298]

Mine lasted a year and a half I’m currently 11 weeks pregnant and terrified to experience it again because I’m scared I may not be so lucky this time 🥺

[@shargalsehsey7022]

Mama u got it ❤

[@mjennifer142]

Please Dr Tracy can you answer me this. Do women with Bipolar Disorder do they all get c-sections? Please be clear.

[@QueenBoudicca125]

I feel like knowing how I'm going to mess up her development just made everything 10x worse

[@clairewillow6475]

I had postpartum OCD .. not sure how common that is ? I had intrusive thoughts about my baby dying and the compulsion to check that he was breathing all the time. I’ve been diagnosed with Bipolar since then. And was diagnosed with borderline personality when I was in my early twenties

[@jaimetyler427]

We sound exactly a like!!! I have a doctors appointment the 21st and am hoping going back to work this week will help and not make things work but I would like to follow up with you!

[@clairewillow6475]

@@jaimetyler427 sure :) !! I think going back to work might help you. It can be stressful but it can also keep help keep the mind busy. Hope you’re doing well

[@asiaspeights3177]

Can you talk about postpartum rage?

[@tlunceford77]

I don't know what it is. I just been super depressed for past couple days.

[@arzxenon8680]

If it's ppd for women then what it should be on men?

[@generalrepair8731]

Dr Marks My wife I believe had this looking forward to part two . By the way I’m familiar with Lamictal . Also not interested in antipsychotics list but thank you for your help i’m already a zombie 🧟‍♂️. General repair

[@DrTraceyMarks]

LOL. Ok don't want to do the zombie thing for sure. 🙂

[@sunset33533]

The mindfulness book "30 Days to Reduce Depression" by Harper Daniels is a good resource.

[@WickedLove2016]

I had it really bad after having my son I had to go to the hospital I had the mental illness kind

[@MH-rv3tf]

Just because I’m a woman doesn’t mean I wanted kids. I wanted a good husband that took care of me and pay bills! Kids make you more depressed!

[@highland314]

I agree !!!

[@luhlezy6460]

True don’t do it

[@fidabasha3205]

First comment and view

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks for jumping on it Fida!

[@tamarrimarcell4374]

Will there be a video on how women should be mentally prepared for pregnant and motherhood? I've had that issue and couldn't continue my pregnancy because I was so mentally broken down about myself, my future and my baby.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Tamarri. I could do a follow-up on that topic.

[@BeingBetter]

You weren't feeling mentally well so you killed your baby?

[@redrose5097]

I just had a baby I'm August 7 2023. And I was crying ALOT. + Had this werid feeling hard to explain. Even leaving the hospital + it didn't help being with my partner that gave no support. Told me to suck it up. I had a break down. He always left me alone with my kids I have a 5 year old and now with my new born. I hated to be Alone. Not sure were I'm at .tired all the time .

[@revathichapa]

I see your pain. I pray God to give you immense strength to process this

[@oooodaxteroooo]

what is the interconnection between schizoid personality disorder and post partum depression? is schizoid a risk factor?

[@BeingBetter]

Not enough information out there about postpartum psychosis. I had it in 2015.

[@alondralima9442]

Same now I have it again with my 3rd. My second was like a positive experience. This 3rd one is so difficult. I am so scared of depression .

[@BeingBetter]

@@alondralima9442 aww, I'm so sorry. It's such a difficult thing. 😌

[@curlyv3180]

I lied on my screening to my doctor..I’m more so scared of what would happen after..can someone let me know what would happen if I’m honest?

[@curlyv3180]

I’m worried it would effect something else in my life. Ex: my family being taken or something.

[@michellecain8491]

They would help you get the support you need. I didn’t get my baby taken away or have to stay in the hospital. They put me on Zoloft 100mg and it helped soooo much but it took 2 weeks to get the full effect but I feel normal again and so thankful I reached out.

[@jaimetyler427]

@@michellecain8491 I think she means the thoughts of harming herself and or her baby specifically which is my concern too.. won’t they have to put us in the hospital / alert social services to do welfare checks after that?

[@SandrineJamaica]

Just to add this can last for yyyeeaaars

[@ladayamerideth]

I’m currently sad because I can’t get up and do what I need to without having to wait on someone to help me. I’ve been crying. My first son is only 6 days old. I’m not sure if he’s feeding well. I started formula and that has made me feel worthless. Nothing helps.

[@Aparna.S93]

Please don't feel worthless. Nobody is worthless. Trust me u r an amazing mother. U feel like this because u love ur baby and want to do what is best for the baby but are unable to do it. I'm also suffering every day. Hope we can come out of this phase soon.

[@jigmetladol1469]

I'm 2 months pregnant and stopped anxiety med. ..After a month of stopping med I started feel fatigue it it remains every day..can it be coz of skipping med... I m helpless

[@DrTraceyMarks]

It could be from stopping your medication. It could also be pregnancy hormones. You should watch for a depression emerging which can also cause fatigue.

[@hafsajaved448]

Dear Dr. How long will postpartum depression goes on ? Suffering from it after 8 months of delivering baby.

[@thePassionatePK]

9 months here. You're not alone!

[@Randomguy-bk8pb]

@@thePassionatePK how are you both doing ? Going through this madness.

[@altheaunertl]

Would you consider talking about the lesser-known post-partum OCD and/or psychosis? I'd be interested to hear about those; I know someone who had intrusive thoughts of hurting her new baby and, despite the fact that she would not have done so, felt like a risk to her own child and started obsessively hiding knives and other sharp things.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

That's a great topic. Someone else asked the both of them as well. Thanks for the suggestion. I plan to work on.

[@BeingBetter]

I had postpartum psychosis. But I never had any thoughts not harming anyone.

[@marlonsmith7342]

Do you have any of those symptoms?

[@sophie800]

The worst thing about the depression is having your own children removed from your care....

[@karterluca4189]

I can’t do it 😔

[@ciaraj6002]

I had my baby about 2 weeks ago. I am extremely depressed. 😔

[@ksoares3085]

How are you now?

[@ciaraj6002]

@@ksoares3085 wow it’s so kind of you to ask! I’m great. I have my days but I am so much happier. Thank you 🥺💕

[@ksoares3085]

@@ciaraj6002 that's very good news to know. It's takes time to heal okay. My baby is 12 weeks and I'm not the happiest person now but I belief it will get beter take care Ciara💞

[@ciaraj6002]

@@ksoares3085 I wish I could become your personal mommy friend! I just don’t want everyone seeing my information lol. I promise it gets better! You got this!

[@Aparna.S93]

Wow u guys! This is so reassuring. I'm going through something. I'm not sure if it is ppd. I had my daughter like 4 months back. I have beautiful innocent soul in front of me to which i cannot connect just because everywhere i read she and i are incompatible zodiacs ( Cancer and Sagittarius) The more i try to research on this the more depressed i feel. I want to be there for her, be her best friend but i just can't as i assume that my level of nurturing and deep love would be too much for her. I don't want to feel this way. I want to love my baby deeply and i want bring her up the way i dreamt. Having a baby girl was actually one of my biggest dreams. I'm now desperately commenting and replying on people's comments in hopes of getting a reply. Like something or anything that can help me get out of this. I hope i will get better one day too

[@secondopinion53]

Hmmmmm.. Very informative

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks Second Opinion!

[@jbastidas29]

I would like to asked you one more question. I recently saw my psychiatrist am on 5mg lexapro i dont suffer from panic attack i use to around three years ago. I have generalized anxiety and depression. Shes leaving me at 5mg for 3 months. I notice a difference in little things. I know the therapeutic dose it 10mg. I have days where i feel anxious and kinda depress like two days. Would i increase? Should i asked for an increase or wait? I also work out everyday and kinda eat healthy. Would you consider depression resistant even tho, i had suicidal ideation in the past and i was able to get better natural by working out and eating healthy. Now i just nervous about a lot of things an go overthings a lot i know its anxiety. But just want lexapro to work.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Treatment resistant depression is defined as failing two antidepressants that were given to you at therapeutic doses. 5 mg is not a therapeutic dose of Lexapro. Three months is long enough to know what 5 mg will do for you. So if you are still having symptoms that have not resolved to your satisfaction, then yes you should ask your doctor for an increase. When you ask, say what you're still feeling that you would like to go away.

[@jbastidas29]

@@DrTraceyMarks so give it time an see if at the end of the three months i get better at 5mg.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

@@jbastidas29 You should only need 1 month. But 3 months may be what's convenient for her scheduling-wise.

[@jbastidas29]

@@DrTraceyMarks this is what i feel so far. Hope you could give me an assessment, to give me a peace of mind. Out of 1 month i say i have 2 to 3 days a week where i felt anxious. I use to not be able to watch action movies do to killing would affect me but not anymore or hear people problems. I do feel like crying but i cant lol and i get over the feeling. Anxiety wise i still worry about stuff an tend to worry. I notice it has help me while i drive i dont see to anxious about traffic or travel far. I seen to still feel anxious someday an someday better. What can yoy tell me sorry to bother you so much

[@DrTraceyMarks]

@@jbastidas29 I can't give you an assessment. It wouldn't be appropriate without doing my evaluation which would be talking to you more than through this comment. Sorry.

[@elzanevdmerwe3577]

Can it develop over time ? Eg a year or so after birth ?.... or only start becoming severe in 12m + after birth ?

[@orishahar]

if i have a history of depression in my teen years do i have a higher chance of postpartum depression?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Yes, you do. It's the same as having an increased chance of having a recurrent episode at any time later in life.

[@SirParcifal]

Also - I have a question - is it normal to be more aggressive as a mom - meaning - when I'm walking my son in the carriage - I'm constantly scouting out the area for threats - animals - people, cars, etc. and when I hear horrible stories of people hurting kids I get very inflamed....and my blood pressure goes up and I say to myself if anyone hurts my son or if I see someone hurt a child I'm going to beat them an inch from their lives... I have never been so "primal" - I feel like a momma gorilla lol

[@anniemulkins6551]

Yes it is and it is funny that you mentioned about feeling like a gorilla because sometimes I felt like a monster lol

[@davidtichborne5090]

taking care of a baby I think can leave a father depressed well taking care of anyone can make people depressed

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Good point. Postpartum depression involves hormonal changes.

[@alleysandya]

Hi madam i have same problems but no one understanding me

[@Aparna.S93]

Hi. Hope u r feeling better now. I'm going through the same. I can't tell anyone. I told my parents and my husband. They didn't understand. So i stopped talking about this with family.

[@Daisukisakura]

My sister have postpartum depression, she always tried to attempt suicide sometimes when she's angry she take one of our kitchen knife and trying to stab herself in her chest and one time she take her son and she turn him upside side down, her baby is just 8months old. She's trying to kill her own son 😭 Me and my mom are worried about her. Now, I know the reason why.

[@Daisukisakura]

But thank God, I grabbed her baby as quickly as possible. He's okay. She was trying to let go her son while she turned him upside down. That's scared us a lot. I don't know what may happen next, but we are giving her the support and love that we can but in that moment, our hearts break I don't want my sister to be so violent. :'(

[@anniemulkins6551]

Hope your sister considered getting some help. I almost ended my life too but it did not happen so that was the time my husband insisted that I need to go see my doctor. Long story short, I was in medication for long time until things got better.

[@deesherocksperiod1939]

@@anniemulkins6551 how long before you got off the medication? Are things really better? And Chloe, how is your sister now?

[@anniemulkins6551]

@@deesherocksperiod1939 hi. More than a year and for me things got better mentally because I was not constantly thinking negative things. However, I did not have energy to do stuff so I had to force myself most of the time.

[@annsmith936]

I had a debilitating anxiety postpartum. I wouldn’t sleep for more than 1-2 hours a day for about 3 weeks and I was going insane. Couldn’t eat either.Lost 10 kgs in a month. I was terrified of my baby and her neediness.The fear was indescribable, just horrible. Then i stared fantasising about giving her away or just running away to my dad in another country . Then I started convincing my husband to give her away because I couldn’t cope anymore. Then I thought about just killing myself . Eventually doctor put me on strong sedatives and I was able to sleep again. Switched to bottle feeding so my husband could help me. Slowly I improved and was able to love and take care of my beautiful daughter. But the anxiety never really completely disappeared. There’s lot of talk about depression but is postpartum anxiety a thing too? Or was it possibly something completely different?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Yes Postpartum anxiety is a thing. It’s just that postpartum depression is more common. A person with an anxiety disorder that starts after giving birth would be considered anxiety with postpartum onset. and just like with depression you can start to have an anxiety disorder after giving birth that hangs around for a long time.

[@annsmith936]

Dr. Tracey Marks thank you so much for your quick reply 😊

[@BeingBetter]

I got anxiety after my second child was born and it never completely went away and now I'm agoraphobic and don't leave my home.

[@MariBelleProductions]

This solidifies my disappointment of possibly not having kids. I have Bipolar II and I'd love to have a child, but I haven't found any research that says how to successfully go through a pregnancy and life as a new mother. I know there has to be women who manage their symptoms and meds and do well. Do you have any info on that? I'm losing hope.

[@kathrinjohnson2582]

I saw a video that mentioned transcranial magnetic therapy for women who have to go off medication for a pregnancy so as to not loose all there progress because of a pregnancy. I wonder if that would be helpful in preventing postpartum for someone who is at a high risk. Idk if that's true or not and I think it was in England but maybe you could Google around and may find something helpful. Sorry I can't find the video now or I would have linked it.Good luck to you !

[@MariBelleProductions]

@@kathrinjohnson2582 Thank you! I've never heard of that and will look it up.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Oh my goodness, I did not want you to walk away with a message that you shouldn't have children. Yes there are plenty of women who manage their symptoms and have multiple children!! Even if you have an episode, you can still recover and have healthy children. So please don't think having bipolar disorder means you should not have children. The reason not to have children is because of something else about you that makes that not a good option. But it's not because of bipolar disorder. the best thing you can do is be proactive and plan things out with your psychiatrist ahead of time. I've even had some women who did their best during pregnancy, because they paid more attention to their own health for the sake of their baby.

[@MariBelleProductions]

@@DrTraceyMarks I will keep that in mind . I'm very good at managing my illness so I know I can be consistent with that aspect. After a bit of thinking I had to rationalize that with all the women with Bipolar Disorder there has to be a percentage of women who had healthy pregnancies and managed their post partum depression. I need to strengthen my belief that I can do that as well. Thank you for replying.

[@Healingarts939]

Krystal J. Don’t have kids it’s nothing but stress

[@o56_idress_ahmed_ee32]

I'm taking escitalopram 20 mg and lamictal for 2 years why then I get anxiety and depression and mood swings...now today Doctor prescribed me valporoic acid 250...can't mood swings and anxiety be fully controlled in bipolar or borderline disorders..

[@DrTraceyMarks]

It may be that the medication is just not effective for you. Not all medications work 100%. Sometimes you have to try other meds. Also it depends on your doses. Here in the US we will use Lexapro up to 40 mg for anxiety before considering it a failure.

[@o56_idress_ahmed_ee32]

@@DrTraceyMarks ...how much time it takes to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder or any mood or anxiety disorder..

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Saddam Hussain There is no specific time. It may take one appointment it may take a couple of appointments. Some people can go years before they get a clear diagnosis.

[@o56_idress_ahmed_ee32]

@@DrTraceyMarks ...thanks dear Mam

[@o56_idress_ahmed_ee32]

@@DrTraceyMarks ...Dear mam,do lifestyle changes help or diet changes help in mood swings in bipolar or borderline..if yes,what helps..

[@jaisrobins1545]

You keep saying him , what if it’s a girl is it different

[@SmileyKy]

If you’re pretty sure you have postpartum depression maybe don’t watch this. This made me feel so much worse. Now I extra feel like I’m failing my son.

[@Aparna.S93]

Trust me u r not. I felt the same too. I'm not sure what I'm going through is ppd or not but this made me feel worse too as I can't get help in my situation now because of the fear of getting invalidated. I already had anxiety but when i had my daughter like 4 months back everything just multiplied. I have beautiful innocent soul in front of me to which i cannot connect just because everywhere i read she and i are incompatible zodiacs ( Cancer and Sagittarius) The more i try to research on this the more depressed i feel. I want to be there for her, be her best friend but i just can't as i assume that my level of nurturing and deep love would be too much for her. I don't want to feel this way. I want to love my baby deeply and i want bring her up the way i dreamt. Having a baby girl was actually one of my biggest dreams. I'm now desperately commenting and replying on people's comments in hopes of getting a reply. Like something or anything that can help me get out of this.

[@lacindyroberts1935]

😞😞😞🥺🥺🥺

[@rickkrockstar]

Why does everyone keep asking me, if I'm depressed. I'm like, she's the one that had the baby. 🤔

[@dianet3994]

Men can have postpartum depression :(

[@DrTraceyMarks]

If you're not getting much sleep, you can start looking like someone was depressed.

[@rickkrockstar]

@@dianet3994 Maybe if they are married.

[@marcellusrobinson1465]

I’m a man and I have postpartum depression