Beauty Tips

How to Tell if You Have Postpartum Depression

The condition might not be as obvious as you think (lots of women overlook no. 7)

by Rose Curiel | COMMENT

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Postpartum Depression: Trouble Bonding with Baby While everyone else -- your hubby, your mother, your neighbor and even strangers -- may be cooing over your little one, you may find that you're feeling somewhat indifferent towards the baby you housed within your body for nine months. What gives? "When someone is depressed they can't see or experience what's around them -- and that is the same whether someone is depressed during the paranatal or non-paranatal period," explains Ho. "Women who are suffering from postpartum depression may find that they can't focus on the baby. They may feel apathy towards the baby. They don't get excited."

Ho stresses that it's particularly important for mothers to connect with their babies during the attachment period because data suggests it can help start a positive socialization process for the child. Without attachment, children "might have difficulty connecting to people or they might question connections," explains Ho. Again, speaking with a professional can help solve the problem before it negatively affects the baby.

SEE NEXT PAGE: Postpartum Depression: Feelings of Guilt and Inadequacy

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