What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression affects 1 in 7 parents—and nearly half go undiagnosed. This complete guide for PPD Treatment helps you recognize the signs, explore effective treatments, and get help in Denver, Boulder, and Westminster.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious but treatable mental health condition that affects many parents during or after pregnancy.

Unlike the temporary “baby blues,” PPD can deeply impact your emotions, energy, and ability to bond with your baby.

This guide explains what postpartum depression is, how common it is, why it matters, and the many ways you can find help. It also answers common questions, points you to science‑based care in the Denver, Boulder, and Westminster area

Understanding postpartum depression

Baby Blues vs Postpartum Depression: What’s the Difference?

It is normal to feel emotional after having a baby.

Many new parents experience the “baby blues” in the form of mood swings, tearfulness, and irritability that usually begin a few days after birth and resolve within two weeks.

Baby blues can be unsettling, but they are short‑lived and do not interfere with daily functioning.

Key symptoms include:

Persistent sadness or guilt

Loss of interest in daily life

Trouble bonding with the baby

Sleep and appetite changes

Thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness

Postpartum depression is different. It is a mood disorder marked by persistent sadness, lack of interest in favorite activities, changes in sleep and appetite, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty bonding with the baby, or even thoughts of harming oneself.

These symptoms last longer than two weeks and can make it hard to care for oneself or the baby.

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

The exact cause is complex but includes:

Hormonal changes after birth

Estrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply after delivery, which can affect brain chemistry.

Sleep deprivation and physical recovery

Emotional strain from new parenting roles

History of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or trauma

Lack of social, financial, or mental leading to stress

In Colorado and nationwide, self-harm (accidental overdose or suicide) has been the leading cause of maternal death since 2004.

Why Postpartum Depression Matters

When left untreated, PPD affects more than just the parent:

It can disrupt the parent-child bond

Children may experience delays in emotional and cognitive development

It increases risk for substance use disorder, relationship conflict, and suicide

Yet 50% of PPD cases go undiagnosed often due to stigma or lack of screening.

Researchers have also found that maternal depression increases the chances of preterm birth and low birth weight.

Children of parents with untreated depression may have more behavioral, learning, or health problems.

Recognizing Signs of Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression can look different for everyone.

Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly.

They might include:

Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or crying more than usual

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you normally enjoy

Extreme fatigue or lack of energy

Changes in appetite or weight (eating much more or much less)

Sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleeping too much

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or inadequacy as a parent

Difficulty bonding with the baby or feeling detached

Anxiety, panic attacks, or excessive worry about the baby

Irritability, anger, or mood swings

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Some people may also experience postpartum psychosis or obsessive‑compulsive disorder, which involve:

Excessive worries

Intrusive thoughts

Compulsive behaviors

Hallucinations

Delusions

Agitation

Confusion

Note: If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, especially thoughts of harm, contact a healthcare provider or emergency services right away.

How to Get Diagnosed for PPD & Get Help?

Because postpartum depression symptoms overlap with the exhaustion and stress of new parenthood, many people do not realize they need help.

During an evaluation, a healthcare provider will ask about your mood, sleep, energy, thoughts, and medical history.

They will check for other conditions like thyroid problems or anemia that can cause similar symptoms.

Honest answers help the provider understand what is happening so they can recommend the right care.

Do not be afraid to reach out to friends or family for support.

Sharing how you feel can relieve some of the pressure and help others understand what you are going through.

If you are worried about cost, know that there are low‑cost or insurance‑covered options, especially at community health centers and clinics near you.

Evidence‑based Treatment Options

Postpartum depression is definitely treatable.

Most people recover with the right combination of support, therapy, and medication management (whenever needed).

1. Talk therapy

Therapy helps you understand and manage your feelings, develop coping strategies, and improve relationships.

Two types of therapy often used for postpartum depression are:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT teaches you to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It can help you challenge the beliefs that contribute to depression and learn skills to manage stress and anxiety.

Interpersonal therapy (IPT): IPT focuses on improving communication and solving problems in relationships. It addresses life transitions, role changes, grief, and conflicts that may play a role in depression.

Therapy can be in-person or via telehealth, offering flexibility for parents with newborns.

2. Medication

Sometimes medication is needed to correct chemical imbalances in the brain.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often the first line of treatment.

For severe cases, antidepressants or mood stabilizers may be used.

Always talk with your provider about the risks and benefits before starting or stopping medication.

3. Lifestyle adjustments

Self‑care can make a big difference.

Try to:

Sleep: Aim for as much rest as possible, even if it means napping in-between baby sleeps or while your partner watches the baby.

Nutrition: Eat balanced meals and drink enough water. Nutrient‑dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains support brain health.

Movement: Gentle exercise, such as walking, yoga, or stretching, boosts mood by releasing endorphins. Getting outside in daylight also helps regulate sleep and vitamin D levels.

Social support: Spend time with supportive friends, family, or parent groups. Joining a postpartum support group can be reassuring.

Mindfulness: Deep breathing, meditation, journaling, or short mindfulness exercises can reduce stress and anxiety.

Support groups for Postpartum Depression

Axis Integrated Mental Health (Denver, Boulder, Westminster) – Insurance-covered PPD treatment, advanced options like Spravato & TMS, women's mental health specialists
Postpartum Support International – Colorado – Helpline: 1‑800‑944‑4773; peer support and provider referrals
Colorado Postpartum Wellness Center (Boulder) – Therapy and classes for new parents
MotherWise (Denver) – Free programs and coaching for new moms
Local hospitals & birth centers – Ask your OB or pediatrician about local postpartum support groups

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if what I’m feeling is normal?

Feeling overwhelmed, tired, or emotional after having a baby is normal. The key difference is duration and severity. If sadness, anxiety, or lack of interest lasts more than two weeks, or if you have thoughts of harming yourself or the baby, reach out to a healthcare provider right away. You deserve support.

2. Can postpartum depression affect people who adopt or use surrogates?

Yes. Postpartum depression can occur after adoption or surrogacy. The hormonal changes are different, but the emotional adjustments and stress can still trigger depression. All new parents should be aware of the signs and seek help if needed.

3. Are there natural or alternative remedies?

Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are the most evidence‑based treatments. Some people find relief from complementary approaches like acupuncture, massage, or herbal supplements, but these should never replace medical care. Always discuss alternative remedies with your provider to ensure they are safe, especially if you are breastfeeding.

4. How long does it take to feel better?

Recovery varies. Some people notice improvement within a few weeks of starting therapy or medication. For others, it may take a few months to feel like themselves again. Staying in close contact with your provider, following your treatment plan, and allowing yourself grace can speed healing.

5. How can family and friends help?

Loved ones can make a big difference by offering practical help (meals, chores, babysitting), listening without judgment, and encouraging treatment. They should watch for signs of severe depression or suicidal thoughts and help the new parent seek professional care. Partners can attend appointments and learn how to support recovery.

6. Where can I find affordable care?

Axis Integrated Mental Health accepts most insurance and offers self‑pay options. Community clinics, sliding scale therapists, and nonprofit organizations can also provide low‑cost services.