Postpartum Depression

When a baby is born, so is a mother. In an instant, you're immersed in a whole new world of responsibility. That's amazing—and so very intense. Motherhood is intense. At Blooma, we understand that, and it's a huge part of why we're here: to lovingly help women become mothers.

Those first couple weeks after giving birth, almost all mamas (80 percent!) have mood swings and feel teary. That's the classic postpartum blues, and we'd love to give you all the hugs and support you need during that time.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is something different, something more serious. PPD can range from malaise to thoughts of suicide, and those deeply, deeply unhappy feelings can linger for a year. Statistics show that 12 to 15 percent of women suffer PPD. At Blooma, we know how that hurts, and so we've gathered a list of local organizations and professionals who can help you feel better.

Some women are never diagnosed with PPD, but they sense that something—and sometimes everything—is not as it should be. Researchers call it self-reported postpartum depression, and more than half of mamas struggle with it. Half! That's a lot of women who feel a little or even moderately depressed. When the blahs go on and on, when it's hard to feel enthusiastic about, well, anything, when you're just so. tapped. out ... chances are, you're stuck in the muck of PPD, whether you've been diagnosed or not.

Whether you've got the blues, a PPD diagnosis, or a sense that you're not really OK, you're welcome here at Blooma. This is a safe place for you. We can talk, or not. We'll make tea, and sit. You and your baby are safe here. Connecting with other women is known to help ease feelings of depression. Even if you don't exactly feel like it, try coming to a BYOB class, or joining our New Mothers Support group, or try a Yoga for You class. It may seem overwhelming at first, but connecting with other mothers, having someone admire your baby, and getting a little exercise can help improve your day, your week, and eventually your outlook on motherhood.

If you're a new mom, and you're struggling, please reach out. You'll find we're always willing to reach back, and to support and honor you, just as you are. We have so much to offer here at Blooma.

What to Watch for

Some signs you might have postpartum depression, from Postpartum Support International:

Feeling sad or depressed
Feeling more irritable or angry with those around you
Having difficulty bonding with your baby
Feeling anxious or panicky
Problems with eating or sleeping
Upsetting thoughts that you can't get out of your mind
Feeling as if you are "out of control" or "going crazy"
Feeling like you never should have become a mother
Worrying that you might hurt your baby or yourself