Early Signs of Postpartum Depression Every Mom Should Know

Bringing a new baby into the world is one of life’s most beautiful moments, but for many mothers, it can also be one of the hardest. While it’s normal to feel tired, emotional, or even a little overwhelmed after birth, sometimes these feelings become more intense and linger much longer than expected. That’s where the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression comes in.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more common than many realize, and recognizing the early warning signs can make all the difference in getting the help and support you need.

Bringing a new baby into the world is one of life’s most beautiful moments, but for many mothers, it can also be one of the hardest. While it’s normal to feel tired, emotional, or even a little overwhelmed after birth, sometimes these feelings become more intense and linger much longer than expected. That’s where the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression comes in.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is more common than many realize, and recognizing the early warning signs can make all the difference in getting the help and support you need.

Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression

Most new mothers—up to 80%—experience the baby blues within the first few days after birth. These feelings often include mood swings, irritability, and frequent crying. The baby blues usually fade within two weeks as your hormones stabilize and you settle into life with your newborn.

Postpartum depression, however, is different. It’s more intense, lasts longer, and can interfere with your ability to care for yourself and your baby. PPD affects about 1 in 7 women, and it’s not a sign of weakness—it’s a medical condition that deserves care and treatment.

Early Signs of Postpartum Depression

Here are some early symptoms to watch for. Experiencing one or two doesn’t always mean you have PPD, but if they’re persistent or worsening, it’s important to reach out for help:

  1. Persistent sadness or emptiness – Feelings of hopelessness that don’t lift after a couple of weeks.
  2. Intense mood swings – Emotional highs and lows that feel uncontrollable.
  3. Difficulty bonding with your baby – Feeling detached or unable to connect.
  4. Appetite changes – Eating too much or having no appetite at all.
  5. Extreme fatigue or insomnia – Either sleeping too much or being unable to sleep even when the baby does.
  6. Loss of interest in activities – Things you once enjoyed no longer bring pleasure.
  7. Heightened anxiety or panic attacks – Constant worry about your baby’s health or your ability to cope.
  8. Feelings of guilt or worthlessness – Blaming yourself for not being a “good enough” mom.
  9. Difficulty concentrating – Trouble focusing or remembering things.
  10. Thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby – A medical emergency that requires immediate help.

Why Recognizing the Signs Matters

Catching postpartum depression early means you can start receiving support before symptoms worsen. Left untreated, PPD can affect not only your well-being but also your baby’s development and your family’s overall health. But with the right help—whether it’s therapy, support groups, medication, or lifestyle changes—most women recover fully.

Small Steps That May Help

While professional help is key, there are small steps that can support your mental health:

  • Rest whenever you can. Even short naps help.
  • Nourish your body. Eating balanced meals keeps your energy and hormones steady.
  • Gentle movement. A walk outside with the stroller can boost your mood.
  • Breastfeeding or pumping. Breastfeeding releases oxytocin and prolactin, hormones that promote bonding and calmness. If breastfeeding isn’t possible, pumping can still help you maintain milk supply and experience hormonal benefits.
  • Journaling. Writing down your feelings can help release emotions and track your progress.

When to Seek Professional Help

If symptoms last longer than two weeks, are getting worse, or interfere with daily life, it’s time to reach out for help. And if you ever have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, please seek immediate assistance—call your healthcare provider or local emergency services right away.

Resources to know:

Final Thoughts

If you recognize these signs in yourself—or in someone you love—remember: you are not alone, and help is available. Postpartum depression is treatable, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

💡 Looking for more ways to support your postpartum journey? Stay tuned for the next article in this series: How Breastfeeding and Pumping Can Support Postpartum Mental Health.

👉 Shop My Favorites: Postpartum Essentials on Amazon for Postpartum Moms!


#PostpartumDepression #NewMomSupport #PostpartumJourney #PostpartumCare #MotherhoodSupport #PostpartumHelp #PostpartumWellness #MentalHealthAwareness #MomLifeSupport #PostpartumRecovery

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression

In this compelling memoir, Brooke Shields talks candidly about her experience with postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter, and provides millions of women with an inspiring example of recovery.

Brook Shields

In this compelling memoir, Brooke Shields talks candidly about her experience with postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter, and provides millions of women with an inspiring example of recovery.

When Brooke Shields welcomed her newborn daughter, Rowan Francis, into the world, something unexpected followed–a crippling depression. Now, for the first time ever, in Down Came the Rain, Brooke talks about the trials, tribulations, and finally the triumphs that occurred before, during, and after the birth of her daughter.

Amazon

Down Came the Rain

👉 Shop My Favorites: Postpartum Essentials on Amazon for Postpartum Moms!

Postpartum Depression & Breastfeeding: How Slower Hormone Changes Can Help — Plus the Benefits of Pumping

Bringing a new baby into the world is one of the most incredible experiences, but it also comes with major physical, emotional, and hormonal changes. For many new moms, postpartum depression (PPD) is a real and overwhelming challenge. According to research, around 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, making it one of the most common complications after childbirth.

While every woman’s journey is unique, studies show that breastfeeding may play a role in lowering the risk of postpartum depression. That’s because hormone shifts happen more gradually when milk is expressed—whether through nursing or pumping—compared to allowing milk to dry up quickly. Let’s break down why that matters, and how both breastfeeding and pumping can support your mental and physical health during the postpartum

💕 Discover how breastfeeding and pumping help regulate hormones, ease mood swings, and support mental health after birth. Learn the benefits of the Momcozy M5 Hands-Free Wearable Pump for comfort and flexibility.

#postpartum #newmom #breastfeeding

Bringing a new baby into the world is one of the most incredible experiences, but it also comes with major physical, emotional, and hormonal changes. For many new moms, postpartum depression (PPD) is a real and overwhelming challenge. According to research, around 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, making it one of the most common complications after childbirth.

While every woman’s journey is unique, studies show that breastfeeding may play a role in lowering the risk of postpartum depression. That’s because hormone shifts happen more gradually when milk is expressed—whether through nursing or pumping—compared to allowing milk to dry up quickly. Let’s break down why that matters, and how both breastfeeding and pumping can support your mental and physical health during the postpartum period.

Why Hormones Play a Role in Postpartum Mood

After birth, estrogen and progesterone levels drop dramatically, triggering many of the physical and emotional changes new moms feel. But when you breastfeed or pump, the decline in these hormones is slower and more gradual. In addition, your body produces oxytocin, sometimes called the “love hormone,” which can:

  • Promote bonding between mom and baby
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Create a sense of calm and relaxation

This gradual hormone shift may help reduce the intensity of mood swings and lower the risk of postpartum depression.

Breastfeeding Benefits Beyond Nutrition

Breastfeeding offers countless benefits for both mom and baby, including:

  • Emotional well-being: The oxytocin released during let-down helps improve mood and lower stress.
  • Physical recovery: Nursing helps the uterus return to pre-pregnancy size and may reduce postpartum bleeding.
  • Baby’s health: Provides antibodies, reduces risk of infections, and supports brain development.
  • Long-term maternal health: Lowers the risk of certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.

When Breastfeeding Isn’t Possible — The Benefits of Pumping

Not every mom can or chooses to breastfeed directly—and that’s okay. Pumping allows you to gain many of the same benefits while still feeding your baby breast milk.

Benefits of pumping include:

  • Maintains milk supply even if baby isn’t latching well
  • Continues gradual hormone release, helping stabilize mood and lessen abrupt hormone drops
  • Flexibility: You can share feeding duties with your partner or caregiver
  • Freedom: Pumping makes it easier to return to work, run errands, or simply rest without worry

Choosing the Right Pump

If you’re planning to pump, a comfortable, efficient, and portable breast pump makes all the difference. One highly rated option available on Amazon is the:

👉 Momcozy M5 Hands-Free Wearable Breast pump

Why moms love it:

  • Hands-free design so you can multitask while pumping
  • Double-sealed flange for baby-like comfort and improved suction
  • 3 modes & 9 suction levels to mimic baby’s natural feeding rhythm
  • Portable and discreet, perfect for home or on-the-go use
  • Comes in a 2-pack, ensuring convenience and flexibility

This pump supports your postpartum journey by helping you continue expressing milk comfortably, which may ease the hormonal transitions linked to mood swings and PPD risk.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum depression is complex, and no single solution works for everyone. Still, supporting your body through gradual hormonal changes with breastfeeding or pumping may help protect your mental health while nourishing your baby.

Whether you breastfeed exclusively, pump, or combine the two, the important thing is finding a routine that works best for you and your baby. And if you’re looking for a reliable, hands-free option to make pumping easier, the Momcozy pump  is a smart, mom-approved choice.

Remember: You’re not alone. If you’re struggling with postpartum depression, please reach out to your healthcare provider for support.

👉 Shop My Favorites: Postpartum Essentials on Amazon for Postpartum Moms!

✨ Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no cost to you if you purchase through my link. I only recommend products I truly believe can support new moms.

Buy Now on Amazon

Postpartum Depression & Breastfeeding: pumping can help

How breastfeeding and pumping can support postpartum health

When Breastfeeding Isn’t Possible — The Benefits of Pumping

Not every mom can or chooses to breastfeed directly—and that’s okay. Pumping allows you to gain many of the same benefits while still feeding your baby breast milk.

Benefits of pumping include:

  • Maintains milk supply even if baby isn’t latching well
  • Continues gradual hormone release, helping stabilize mood and lessen abrupt hormone drops
  • Flexibility: You can share feeding duties with your partner or caregiver
  • Freedom: Pumping makes it easier to return to work, run errands, or simply rest without worry

Full article tomorrow!

If you’re looking for a reliable, hands-free option to make pumping easier, the Momcozy M5 pump is a smart, mom-approved choice. Check it out on amazon!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no cost to you if you purchase through my link. I only recommend products I truly believe can support new moms.

Postpartum Wellness

I recreated this space from selling vintage items (I still sell lol just redirecting my efforts), to offer real support for mothers, fathers, and families navigating life after birth. Here, you’ll find practical tips for coping with postpartum anxiety, honest conversations about maternal mental health, and guidance for partners who want to help but may not know how. My first topic will be postpartum depression. I am putting finishing touches on a book I have written on this topic. So stayed tuned! Visit my pages to see the first important information on postpartum depression- a mental health resource & support worksheet with book recommendations. Be patient with me while I navigate how to run a website page. I will also be adding product links on items I feel will help new mothers go through their journey. Check out my “Shop My Favorites” page. Thank you.

Recommend this book: Why Olivia Wrote Secrets of Raven’s Hollow: The Power of Unsolved Truths

Every story begins with a question. For me, it was: What if the place you called home was hiding the truth about the person you loved most? That question led me to write Secrets of Raven’s Hollow.


Returning to your hometown can feel like opening a dusty attic—familiar, but unsettling. For Claire Donovan, that attic is Raven’s Hollow, a small town where nothing is quite what it seems.

As a writer, I’ve always been fascinated by buried secrets and the emotional weight they carry. Claire’s journey mirrors what many of us fear: the idea that the people we trust may not be who they appear to be. Through her relentless pursuit of the truth behind her sister’s disappearance and a suspicious death, I wanted to explore what it means to stand up against corruption—even when it hits closest to home.

Secrets of Raven’s Hollow isn’t just a murder mystery. It’s a story about confronting the past, about love and loyalty tested by time, and about one woman’s refusal to let the truth stay buried.


If you’ve ever wondered how far you’d go for justice—or for family—this story might resonate with you more than you think.

https://a.co/d/ck2e5JA

Amazon

Vintage Copper & Brass ESSANAY Fire Extinguisher EMPTY

This vintage copper and brass ESSANAY fire extinguisher is a unique collectible piece that showcases firefighting and rescue history. Made in the United States, this empty extinguisher features a classic design and craftsmanship that would make a great addition to any historical memorabilia or firefighting enthusiast’s collection. With its sturdy construction and iconic firefighter theme, this item is sure to evoke nostalgia and admiration for the brave individuals who worked in the firefighting profession.

Empty. Cool find! Almost 24” tall. Could keep patina or clean it up.

https://ebay.us/m/aY2xlb

Antique Cut Glass Crystal Heavy Large 8” Bowl Sawtooth Scalloped Edges GORGEOUS

This antique cut glass crystal bowl features intricate sawtooth scalloped edges, adding a touch of elegance to any table setting. This 8″ round bowl is perfect for all occasions and can serve as a stunning centerpiece piece. The clear glass material gives it a timeless and classic appeal, making it a beautiful addition to any home decor.

Has been in my family for a few generations. Has a few very tiny flea bite chips (see pics) on the inside of sawtooth- I believe they are made when the edges were created, not chips from dropping or accidents. Excellent condition otherwise. Very heavy glass – weighs 3 lbs 5 oz. before packing up!

If anyone recognizes the pattern please send me a message!!

https://ebay.us/m/LGoZQC

Book 2 Available now for Preorder Echoes of the Past in Raven’s Hollow : A Gripping Mystery Thriller of Secrets and Lies

https://a.co/d/921Y9ta

Writing Book 2 of the Claire Raven Series has been an incredible journey—one filled with twists and turns, much like the story itself. When I first introduced Claire in Secrets of Raven’s Hollow, I had no idea how deeply I would come to know her, nor how much her world would grow with each page. This book allowed me to dive even further into her story, exploring the weight of the past, the resilience of the human spirit, and the unbreakable bonds of family, friendship, and loyalty.
One of the most rewarding aspects of writing this book was the chance to return to Raven’s Hollow, a town that feels almost as real to me as any small town I’ve ever known. I’ve always been drawn to atmospheric settings, where the town itself becomes a character, holding its own secrets and shaping the people who live there. The idea of a place where mystery lingers just beneath the surfacehas always fascinated me, and I loved crafting a story where Raven’s Hollow once again proves that its past is never truly buried.
This book also deepened my connection to Claire. In Secrets of Raven’s Hollow, she was determined to uncover the truth about her sister’s disappearance and the death of Oliver, a key figure in town. Now, in Book 2, Claire faces a new mystery—one that forces her to confront her own fears, test the limits of trust, and fight for the life she has built. She is no longer just chasing answers—she’s protecting her future.
If you’ve read my previous books, you’ll know that I love writing stories that blend mystery, suspense, and small-town intrigue. There’s something captivating about peeling back the layers of a community, revealing the hidden truths that lie just beneath the surface. Whether it’s a past crime resurfacing, a town grappling with its own secrets, or a character discovering that nothing is quite as it seems, I strive to create gripping, emotional, and suspenseful stories that keep you turning the pages.
Writing this book challenged me in new ways. Balancing the suspense with character-driven moments, weaving together past and present mysteries, and keeping the tension high while allowing room for emotional depth—it was a process that pushed me as a writer, but one that I enjoyed immensely.
Most of all, this book is about second chances—not just for Claire, but for many of the characters in Raven’s Hollow. It’s about the choices we make, the past we can’t escape, and the hope that, no matter how dark things seem, there’s always a path forward.
I hope you enjoy this next chapter in Claire’s story as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thank you for being part of this journey—whether you’ve been with me from the beginning or are just discovering my books now, I’m so grateful for each and every reader.
Happy reading!
Olivia Winter
Writing Book 2 of the Claire Raven Series has been an incredible journey—one filled with twists and turns, much like the story itself. When I first introduced Claire in Secrets of Raven’s Hollow, I had no idea how deeply I would come to know her, nor how much her world would grow with each page. This book allowed me to dive even further into her story, exploring the weight of the past, the resilience of the human spirit, and the unbreakable bonds of family, friendship, and loyalty.
One of the most rewarding aspects of writing this book was the chance to return to Raven’s Hollow, a town that feels almost as real to me as any small town I’ve ever known. I’ve always been drawn to atmospheric settings, where the town itself becomes a character, holding its own secrets and shaping the people who live there. The idea of a place where mystery lingers just beneath the surfacehas always fascinated me, and I loved crafting a story where Raven’s Hollow once again proves that its past is never truly buried.
This book also deepened my connection to Claire. In Secrets of Raven’s Hollow, she was determined to uncover the truth about her sister’s disappearance and the death of Oliver, a key figure in town. Now, in Book 2, Claire faces a new mystery—one that forces her to confront her own fears, test the limits of trust, and fight for the life she has built. She is no longer just chasing answers—she’s protecting her future.
If you’ve read my previous books, you’ll know that I love writing stories that blend mystery, suspense, and small-town intrigue. There’s something captivating about peeling back the layers of a community, revealing the hidden truths that lie just beneath the surface. Whether it’s a past crime resurfacing, a town grappling with its own secrets, or a character discovering that nothing is quite as it seems, I strive to create gripping, emotional, and suspenseful stories that keep you turning the pages.
Writing this book challenged me in new ways. Balancing the suspense with character-driven moments, weaving together past and present mysteries, and keeping the tension high while allowing room for emotional depth—it was a process that pushed me as a writer, but one that I enjoyed immensely.
Most of all, this book is about second chances—not just for Claire, but for many of the characters in Raven’s Hollow. It’s about the choices we make, the past we can’t escape, and the hope that, no matter how dark things seem, there’s always a path forward.
I hope you enjoy this next chapter in Claire’s story as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thank you for being part of this journey—whether you’ve been with me from the beginning or are just discovering my books now, I’m so grateful for each and every reader.
Happy reading!
Olivia

Exciting News: My Raven’s Hollow Book 2 Coming to Amazon Soon! Here is book 1:


Dear Reader,  

This story has been a labor of love, inspired by the mysteries that linger just beneath the surface of small towns and the determination of those who seek the truth, no matter the cost.  

As you journey alongside Claire through Raven’s Hollow—unraveling secrets, confronting old wounds, and piecing together the truth—I hope you find yourself drawn into the town’s shadows and light. Claire’s resilience, her loyalty to those she loves, and her courage to face danger head-on are qualities that made writing her story both challenging and deeply rewarding.  

Raven’s Hollow may be fictional, but the emotions and struggles within its borders are real. At its heart, this book is about finding closure, seeking justice, and daring to start anew.  

I hope you enjoy the twists, turns, and suspense as much as I enjoyed writing them. And if you find yourself yearning to explore more of Raven’s Hollow—there’s always another secret waiting to be uncovered.  

Happy reading,  Olivia

https://a.co/d/82gQOpr