The Perinatal depression It is a condition that can appear during pregnancy or in the weeks after birth. Many mothers begin to feel symptoms between the 4th and 8th week postpartum. This emotional difficulty affects mood, energy levels, and the ability to care for themselves and the baby. Recognizing the Perinatal depression On time is fundamental to prevent discomfort from advancing and to foster the bond with the newborn.

Postnatal depression vs. transient sadness (“baby blues”)

It is common for mild sadness, irritability, or easy crying to appear in the first few days after childbirth. This is the “baby blues,” a temporary state that disappears in less than two weeks.

The Perinatal depression, however, it implies symptoms more intense, persistent, and interfering with daily life. It is not a lack of love for the baby or a sign of weakness. It is a health problem that requires specialist attention.

When to ask for professional help

Consult a professional when:

• The symptoms last more than two weeks.
• Sadness, anxiety, or irritability interfere with daily life.
• There are difficulties in caring for the baby or bonding with them.
• The mother feels overwhelmed most of the time.
• There were emotional problems in previous pregnancies.
• There are thoughts of harming yourself or the baby (immediate attention required).

Recommended reading ¿Tengo cansancio o es depresión?

Asking for help enables effective treatment to be initiated and prevents the Perinatal depression worsens.

Causes of perinatal depression

There isn't a single cause. The following usually have an influence:

• Intense hormonal changes.

• Pregnancy, birth or baby care stress.

• Previous traumatic experiences.

• Family history of depression or anxiety.

• Having experienced perinatal depression in a previous pregnancy.

These conditions are risk factors, not a sentence.

The importance of psychological attention

The Perinatal depression affects both the mother and her surroundings. Psychological therapy helps to:

• Identify thoughts that maintain depression.
• Regulating emotions and reducing anxiety.
• Managing maternal role overload.
• Strengthening self-esteem and coping skills.
• Improving supportive relationships.

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In severe cases, it can be combined with medication.

How can family and friends help

• Validating the mother's emotions.

• Making it easier to attend psychological consultations.

• Helping with daily tasks or baby care.

• Being alert to significant changes in emotional state.

Close emotional support is key to a faster recovery.

Conclusion

The Perinatal depression It is common, serious and completely treatable. Detecting it early and seeking professional help improves the mother's emotional health, strengthens the bond with the baby and reduces family stress. Talking about it without taboos and seeking support is an act of bravery and self-care.

Recognising the symptoms in good time and seeking professional support can make all the difference, both for the mother's well-being and for the baby's development and family stability. Having a support network, expressing one's feelings, and receiving specialised psychological care not only facilitates recovery but also strengthens the mother's ability to experience this stage more calmly, connectedly, and with companionship.

References

• Dennis, C. L., & Hodnett, E. (2007). Psychosocial and psychological interventions for treating postpartum depression. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (4).

• O’Hara, M. W., & McCabe, J. E. (2013). Postpartum depression: current status and future directions. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 9, 379–407.

• Howard, L. M., Molyneaux, E., Dennis, C. L., Rochat, T., Stein, A., & Milgrom, J. (2014). Non-psychotic mental disorders in the perinatal period. The Lancet, 384(9956), 1775–1788.

• Stewart, D. E., & Vigod, S. N. (2016). Postpartum Depression: Pathophysiology, Treatment, and Emerging Therapeutics. *Annual Review of Medicine, 67*, 231–243.

Post written by Samara Valenzuela Psychologist at CALMA Psicólogos Fuengirola