How long does postpartum depression last? Many new mothers will feel some form of depression after giving birth. As your body returns to normal, the chemical imbalance can cause mild to severe depression that lasts six months up to a year or longer. Several factors will determine how severe symptoms will be, including if this is your first birth and the time it takes to deliver. Depression treatment is essential for anyone whose symptoms are getting in the way of caring for their new baby.
At Arkview Recovery, we help new mothers struggling with depression after giving birth. Our certified behavioral therapists have experience working with mothers and supporting them through postpartum depression. For severe symptoms, we offer medication-assisted treatment to minimize the symptoms causing the most disruption. For more information on how long postpartum depression lasts, call 717.744.0756 today to speak with our compassionate staff about enrolling in our postpartum depression treatment program.
Understanding Postpartum Depression
Being depressed is common for women after giving birth. While most women will experience mild depression or “Baby Blues,” others can experience moderate to severe symptoms that can impact their ability to bond with their child and affect the child’s early development. Postpartum depression (PPD) symptoms are most common within the first week after childbirth but can occur six months to a year after giving birth.
Some of the symptoms of postpartum depression include:
- Severe mood swings
- Loss of appetite
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Overwhelming fatigue
- Excessive crying
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Reoccurring thoughts of suicide or death
Arkview Recovery supports women struggling with depression through our beneficial postpartum depression treatment program. We base your treatment program on your individual symptoms. This creates an effective program that helps you manage your symptoms and care for your new baby.
How Long Does Postpartum Depression Last?
In most cases, PPD will start within the first few weeks after giving birth and can last up to a year. Women who do not get treatment for their symptoms may experience symptoms that last for several years.
Here is a breakdown of the average time for postpartum depression:
- Week 1 – The first week after giving birth is typically the most difficult, starting around day three as your body returns to its pre-pregnancy state. Lack of rest and chemical imbalances will cause most women to cry excessively and feel like nothing is right.
- Week 2 – During the second week, the baby blues start to fade, but some women will experience increased depression and anxiety over being unable to bond with their baby. Suicidal thoughts are also common and can impact your ability to care for your child.
- Week 6 – After six weeks, physical healing is nearly complete, and most women will begin to feel normal. Symptoms of PPD will start to diminish, but some symptoms can last longer and fluctuate in severity.
- 6-12 Months – PPD symptoms will continue to decrease for most women during this time. Women can begin light exercise that can benefit their mental health recovery.
Women should talk with a behavioral therapist if their symptoms do not disappear after three weeks. In some cases, postpartum depression symptoms will last longer than one year after childbirth.
Treatment Options and Help for PPD
If you have postpartum depression, there is help available to you. Treatment options for PPD include talk therapy and medication-assisted treatment with antidepressants.
You are not alone. There are resources and support networks that can help you navigate this challenging time. There are many effective treatments that can help you recover and enjoy your motherhood journey.
- Therapy – One-on-one or group therapy sessions can help you manage your symptoms and provide you with coping strategies.
- Medication – Antidepressants can be effective in managing postpartum depression. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the best treatment options.
- Support groups – Connecting with other mothers who are going through the same experience can provide emotional support and understanding.
- Lifestyle changes – Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and time for relaxation can all aid in your recovery.
In your journey to overcome postpartum depression, know that you are brave, you are strong, and you are not alone. With the right help and support, you can reclaim your joy and fully engage in the beautiful journey of motherhood.
Join Arkview Recovery for Our Compassionate Postpartum Depression Treatment
How long does postpartum depression last? Each woman is different in how their body recoups after pregnancy, and their PPD symptoms will vary in length and severity. We offer women a safe and comfortable space to focus on their recovery through various behavioral and holistic therapies.
If you are experiencing postpartum depression, call 717.744.0756 or send us a message using our online form today, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Kyle is Lead Therapist at Arkview Recovery Center. He holds a Master of Social Work degree from Temple University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He has years of experience working directly with individuals who suffer from addiction and mental health disorders. Being in long term recovery himself, Kyle is very passionate about the recovery process. He is heavily involved in the local recovery community in which he enjoys his commitments to service and giving back. His specialty is in group therapy and developing clinical staff. Kyle brings to Arkview a holistic approach to recovery, specializing in mindfulness, reality therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
