POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION, COUNSELING AND THE BLACK SUPERWOMAN COMPLEX

Written By Jasmine Ross
Bright natural dining room nook with vases plates and fruits on the table.

Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Blues is a real concern for many moms…even Black moms. Various forms of depression among black women is more common than you think. African-American women live with “multiple minority status” that places us at a greater risk for depression. We live in a majority-dominated society that frequently devalues our ethnicity, culture and gender. These realities can increase a woman’s likely of experiences difficulties after giving birth. The good news is that counseling can help. Remember that you are not alone. Postpartum Progress can be achieved. Check out how Kaleena, from Love and Hip-Hop Atlanta, on her journey to wellness.

Postpartum baby blues symptoms

Signs and symptoms of baby blues — which last only a few days to a week or two after your baby is born — may include:

  • Mood swings

  • Anxiety

  • Sadness

  • Irritability

  • Feeling overwhelmed

  • Crying

  • Reduced concentration

  • Appetite problems

  • Trouble sleeping

Postpartum depression symptoms

Postpartum depression may be mistaken for baby blues at first — but the signs and symptoms are more intense and last longer, eventually interfering with your ability to care for your baby and handle other daily tasks. Symptoms usually develop within the first few weeks after giving birth, but may begin later — up to six months after birth.

Postpartum depression symptoms may include:

  • Depressed mood or severe mood swings

  • Excessive crying

  • Difficulty bonding with your baby

  • Withdrawing from family and friends

  • Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual

  • Inability to sleep (insomnia) or sleeping too much

  • Overwhelming fatigue or loss of energy

  • Reduced interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy

  • Intense irritability and anger

  • Fear that you’re not a good mother

  • Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt or inadequacy

  • Diminished ability to think clearly, concentrate or make decisions

  • Severe anxiety and panic attacks

  • Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

    Untreated, postpartum depression may last for many months or longer.

Jasmine Ross
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