Why Am I Struggling? Postpartum Depression and Your Medical Next Steps

If you've recently had a baby and find yourself thinking, "Why am I struggling like this?" — you are not alone. Many new parents expect exhaustion. Fewer expect the emotional weight that can follow childbirth.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is common, real, and treatable. It is not a personal failure, and it is not a sign that you are a bad parent. It is a medical condition that deserves attention and care.

Below, we'll walk through what postpartum depression is, why it happens, what symptoms to watch for, and what medical steps to take next.

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What Is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression is a type of depression that happens during pregnancy or after childbirth. It is more intense and longer-lasting than the "baby blues."

The baby blues:

• Affect up to 80% of new mothers
• Start within a few days after delivery
• Include mood swings, tearfulness, and irritability
• Usually improve within two weeks

Postpartum depression, however:

• Lasts longer than two weeks
• Can begin anytime in the first year after delivery
• Interferes with daily life
• May require medical treatment

Postpartum depression can affect mothers, and it can also affect fathers and non-birthing partners.

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Why Am I Struggling?

There is rarely just one cause. Postpartum depression usually develops from a mix of biological, emotional, and situational factors.

1. Hormone Changes

After delivery, estrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply. These hormonal shifts can affect brain chemistry and mood. Thyroid hormone levels may also fluctuate, contributing to fatigue and depression-like symptoms.

2. Sleep Deprivation

Interrupted sleep is not just tiring — it changes how your brain regulates mood, stress, and decision-making. Chronic sleep disruption can significantly increase the risk of postpartum depression.

3. Emotional Overload

A new baby brings:

• Responsibility
• Identity shifts
• Relationship changes
• Financial pressure
• Less personal time

Even a wanted, loved baby creates stress. That stress can build quietly.

4. Personal or Family History

You may be at higher risk if you have:

• A history of depression or anxiety
• A prior episode of postpartum depression
• A family history of mood disorders

5. Complicated Pregnancy or Birth

Unexpected medical issues, NICU stays, birth trauma, or breastfeeding struggles can increase emotional strain.

Struggling does not mean you are weak. It often means your brain and body are under significant stress.

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Common Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression can look different from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent sadness or emptiness
• Crying more than usual
• Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Feeling disconnected from your baby
• Irritability or anger
• Feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in appetite
• Sleeping too much or being unable to sleep (even when the baby sleeps)
• Low energy or severe fatigue
• Thoughts of harming yourself

Some people also experience anxiety symptoms, including:

• Racing thoughts
• Constant worry about the baby's health
• Panic attacks
• Feeling "on edge" all the time

If these symptoms last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life, it is important to take them seriously.

If you're unsure whether what you're feeling could be depression, Ubie's free AI-powered Depression Symptom Checker can help you identify what may be happening and provide guidance on what to do next.

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When Is It Urgent?

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Thoughts of harming yourself
• Thoughts of harming your baby
• Hearing voices or seeing things others don't
• Severe confusion
• Paranoia

These symptoms could signal postpartum psychosis, which is rare but a medical emergency.

If anything feels life-threatening or unsafe, contact emergency services right away or go to the nearest emergency room. Your safety matters.

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Your Medical Next Steps

If you think you may have postpartum depression, here's what to do.

1. Speak to a Doctor

Start with:

• Your OB-GYN
• Primary care doctor
• Midwife
• Psychiatrist

Be direct. You can say:

"I think I might have postpartum depression."

Doctors are trained to screen for this condition. Many use standardized questionnaires to assess symptoms.

If anything feels severe, worsening, or frightening, speak to a doctor immediately.

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2. Get Screened for Other Medical Causes

Some medical conditions can mimic or worsen postpartum depression, including:

• Thyroid disorders
• Anemia
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Hormonal imbalances

A simple blood test may be recommended.

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3. Consider Therapy

Therapy is a first-line treatment for postpartum depression.

Evidence-based approaches include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Therapy helps you:

• Challenge negative thought patterns
• Process identity changes
• Strengthen coping skills
• Improve communication with your partner or support system

Many people improve significantly with therapy alone.

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4. Medication May Be Appropriate

Antidepressants are often used to treat postpartum depression. Many are considered safe during breastfeeding.

Medication may be especially helpful if:

• Symptoms are moderate to severe
• Therapy alone is not enough
• You have a history of depression

Starting medication does not mean you will need it forever. Many people use it temporarily while stabilizing.

This is a decision to make with your doctor after discussing risks and benefits.

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5. Strengthen Practical Support

Medical treatment works best when daily stress is reduced.

Consider:

• Asking for help with meals
• Accepting childcare assistance
• Taking shifts at night if possible
• Prioritizing sleep when you can
• Spending short periods outside daily

Even small improvements in rest and support can make a meaningful difference.

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What Recovery Looks Like

Recovery from postpartum depression is not instant. It often happens gradually.

You may notice:

• Fewer crying spells
• Improved sleep
• More patience
• Moments of enjoyment returning
• Less guilt and self-blame

Healing does not mean you never struggle again. It means the struggle becomes manageable.

Most people recover fully with appropriate care.

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What If I'm Embarrassed to Ask for Help?

Many parents feel shame about postpartum depression. They may think:

• "I should be happier."
• "Other people handle this."
• "My baby deserves better."

These thoughts are symptoms of depression — not truths.

Postpartum depression is a medical condition involving brain chemistry, hormones, and stress. It is not a character flaw.

Asking for help is a responsible and protective act — for both you and your child.

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A Final Word

If you are asking, "Why am I struggling?" — that question alone deserves attention.

Postpartum depression is common. It is treatable. And you do not have to push through it alone.

Taking a few minutes to use Ubie's free Depression symptom checker can give you clarity about your symptoms and help you prepare for a conversation with your doctor.

Most importantly, speak to a doctor about any symptoms that are severe, persistent, or concerning — especially anything that could be life-threatening or serious. Early treatment leads to better outcomes.

Struggling after having a baby does not mean you are failing. It means your body and brain may need support. And support is available.