Misconceptions vs. Realities of Postpartum Depression

I struggled a lot to come to terms with postpartum depression. Even after being diagnosed, I still had a lot of doubts. Part of it was because I didn't feel like it got talked about enough and the other part was because for me, there was a sense of pride and I felt like admitting it somehow made me a weaker person.

It is communities like this that made me realize I wasn't weak for admitting I had PPD, it made me a stronger person to admit it and get help! Despite increasing awareness, several misconceptions persist. I have compiled a list of those I faced in my journey that led to getting the help I needed:

5 postpartum depression myths

1. PPD is the same as the "baby blues."

Misconception: Postpartum depression is just an extreme form of the baby blues.
Reality: While the "baby blues" involve mild mood swings, crying spells, and anxiety that typically go away within 2 weeks after giving birth, PPD is more severe, longer lasting, and requires treatment.¹

I remember the screenings at the pediatrician and at my follow-up appointments with my OB. Answering those questions felt like just one additional thing to get through on a very long checklist of to-do's. I never truly answered those honestly.

Pro tip: Answer honestly, chat with your provider, and get help sooner!

2. PPD happens immediately after birth.

Misconception: Postpartum depression starts right after the baby is born.
Reality: PPD can develop at any time. Some women might not experience symptoms until several months or years postpartum.²

I didn't realize I might be suffering from PPD until my second child was born. That was 2 years after the first. I began to have much more intense feelings the second pregnancy which prompted me to begin talking about it. I didn't get help until about 9 months after that.

Pro tip: Don't dismiss how you are feeling or set it aside because it is not a priority. You are the priority. If not for you, your baby needs you!

3. Only women with a history of depression get PPD.

Misconception: Only women who have had depression before will get postpartum depression.
Reality: While a history of depression increases the risk, PPD can occur in women with no prior history of mental health issues.¹

4. PPD will go away on its own.

Misconception: Postpartum depression is temporary and will resolve without treatment and a lot of willpower.
Reality: PPD can persist and worsen without intervention. Professional treatment, including therapy and medication, support groups, and incorporating healthy habits can significantly improve outcomes. ³

5. If you have PPD, you must have done something wrong.

Misconception: Postpartum depression is a sign of personal weakness or failure as a mother.
Reality: PPD is a medical condition caused by a combination of hormonal changes, psychological adjustment to motherhood, and other factors. It is not a reflection of a person's capabilities or worth as a parent.³

6. Talking about PPD means you don't love your baby.

Misconception: Admitting to having postpartum depression means you don't love your baby as much.
Reality: PPD does not reflect a lack of love or commitment to one's child. It is an illness that requires compassion and understanding.

Don't listen to the myths

Those last 2 hit me the hardest. To this day, I still struggle with feelings of guilt for not being strong enough to love my children without PPD. PPD and the love of your children can co-exist. Becoming a parent has been the best and equally hardest thing I have ever done. We aren't weak, we are strong, and with the right help, we can get through it.