Did you know that roughly 10% of all pregnancies result in Postpartum Depression? This equates to nearly 400,000 women each year.

Statistics show that chances for a mother to experience Postpartum Depression are far greater than the chance she will have a cesarean section. Yet, much more information and preparation is given on the later.

I’ve been doing a little studying on Postpartum Depression (PPD). I’ve always been a believer that this was a very serious and real condition.

But only, when I read about its symptoms and details, did I finally decide that I, myself have been a sufferer of PPD.

So yes, I’m self-diagnosed. But as my reading listed possible feelings and symptoms I thought, “Hey, I felt that way. No wonder I cried so much and felt so out of control.” And not so much immediately following the birth of my babies as sometimes months later.

Did you know that PPD can last as long as up to 2 years after your baby’s birth? There are so many factors that can contribute.

I would say I was probably on the mild side of things, thankfully. But it’s such a scary condition that goes untreated in SO many women.

There is a difference between baby blues and PPD. Some of the symptoms are similar, but baby blues are not as severe and not as long-lasting.

Many women are afraid to admit to having the symptoms, some of which I’ve listed here: (taken from www.webmd.com):

• Depressed mood-tearfulness, hopelessness, and feeling empty inside, with or without severe anxiety.

• Loss of pleasure in either all or almost all of your daily activities.

• Appetite and weight change-usually a drop in appetite and weight, but sometimes the opposite.

• Sleep problems-usually trouble with sleeping, even when your baby is sleeping.

• Noticeable change in how you walk and talk-usually restlessness, but sometimes sluggishness.• Extreme fatigue or loss of energy.

• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, with no reasonable cause.

• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions.

• Thoughts about death or suicide. Some women with PPD have fleeting, frightening thoughts of harming their babies: these thoughts tend to be fearful thoughts, rather than urges to harm.

Another thing I have learned is that many cases of PPD actually start BEFORE the baby is even born. If you have experience depression during pregnancy, your chances for PPD are much higher. So be aware, and be prepared to seek help.

One of my favorite resources on this topic is a book by Ronald Rosenberg, called, “Conquering postpartum depression : a proven plan for recovery.” It was very educational and lists reasons and solutions and treatments for PPD.

Another great resource is a motherhood website by Stephanie Knaak, PhD and mother. She share's valuable information on her own research of PPD.

If you feel that you might be suffering from PPD, please, get help. Think of how much happier you could be and how much better life could be without such feelings!

You never have to be alone. There’s hope and there’s help.