Private clinic for postnatal depression

PPD is distinguished from the so-called “baby blues,” which is a transient depressive mood shortly after birth. This usually sets in 3 to 5 days after birth. Here, the joy of having brought the baby into the world in good health is overshadowed by exhaustion, fatigue, and occasional crying. This condition subsides on its own after a short time without treatment. In the case of postnatal depression, on the other hand, the situation is long-lasting and requires urgent treatment.

In fact, 10-15% of all childbearing women are affected by PPD.

Feelings of sadness or a low mood are considered normal to some degree after pregnancy, as the mother is often faced with losses such as giving up her job or daily habits. In addition, many mothers tend to have (in advance) too high and unrealistic expectations of both themselves and the child, which, however, turn out to be completely different in reality and thus cannot meet the exaggerated expectations.

Contrary to assumptions, postnatal depression does not have to occur immediately after the child’s birth, but mothers can at any time until about two years after a severe depression fall. It is often difficult to recognize, both for the affected person herself and for relatives, because the mothers try out of enormous shame and guilt to maintain the facade of a happy mother as long as possible.