What is the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression?

Baby blues are short-term mood changes that occur within two weeks of delivery and typically resolve on their own. Postpartum depression is more intense, lasts longer, and often requires treatment.

How long do baby blues last?

Baby blues usually begin within the first few days after birth and resolve within two weeks without medical intervention.

When should I seek help for postpartum depression or anxiety?

If symptoms last beyond two weeks postpartum or begin after that period, and interfere with daily functioning or bonding, it's time to seek professional support.

Can therapy help with postpartum depression or anxiety?

Yes, therapy is highly effective. A perinatal therapist can help you manage symptoms, understand underlying causes, and support recovery through individual or couples therapy.

Recognizing Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression & Anxiety?

Heather Davidson
May 14
2 min read

Recognizing the difference between “Baby Blues” and other perinatal mood disorders such as postpartum depression or anxiety is critical for knowing when to get additional support with a perinatal counselor. Let’s look at how the differences:

Mother holding newborn, representing the emotional contrast between baby blues, postpartum depression, and perinatal anxiety. — A mother cradles her newborn in a quiet moment — a reminder that the early postpartum period brings both connection and emotional challenges.

What to Know About the Baby Blues

Baby Blues happens within two weeks of delivery and usually resolves on its own
It is caused by the hormonal changes post-birth, like a sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone, coupled with the lack of sleep and stress of caring for a newborn
60-80% of women will experience Baby Blues after giving birth
Symptoms include mood swings, tearfulness, anxiety, irritability, and feeling overwhelmed – generally self-esteem will remain intact

What to Know About Postpartum Depression or Anxiety

Postpartum depression or anxiety can start anytime within the first year after childbirth, though often it's within the first few months
Depression symptoms can include persistent sadness, severe mood swings, difficulty bonding with the baby, withdrawal from family and friends, sleep issues, low self-esteem and feeling hopeless
Anxiety symptoms can include extreme worry, fear, and anxiety that can overshadow the positives of new parenthood. Depression symptoms may also be present, but anxiety symptoms are usually more intense. Women may experience unrelenting worry about the baby's health or safety, sleep disturbances due to anxiety, and sometimes obsessive-compulsive behaviors around the baby's health and safety
Unlike the Baby Blues, postpartum depression or anxiety does not resolve on its own

Important Takeaways

Baby Blues is a normal reaction to the sudden and drastic hormonal changes on top of the stress of being a new mom. However, if symptoms have lasted longer than two weeks after giving birth, or began after two weeks postpartum, then it is not the Baby Blues. Postpartum depression or anxiety usually does not resolve on its own and women experiencing these symptoms need support and treatment – but the good news is postpartum depression and anxiety is treatable! Treatment options include usually a combination of the following: medication, individual or couples therapy and support groups. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also crucial for recovery and includes eating healthy, good sleep hygiene, exercise, having time for oneself and getting social support – all important in maintaining better health. If you or your partner are struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety reach out to Better Being Main Line for help! Our perinatal counselors offer women’s counseling, couples therapy or marriage counseling. EMDR therapy and sex therapy.