It's common to lose sleep, feel irritable, and cry easily during the first few days after childbirth. Hormone changes and the demands of a new baby can cause these "baby blues." If these mood changes last more than 2 weeks, you may have postpartum depression. This is a medical condition that requires treatment.

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  You feel very sad or hopeless and lose interest in daily activities.

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  You sleep too much or not enough.

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  You feel tired or as if you have no energy.

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  You eat too much or too little.

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  You write or talk about death.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

• Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
• Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
• Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Tips to help with postpartum depression

What you can do

• Try to go to all of your counseling sessions.
• Take medicines as directed.
• Eat healthy foods.
• Get daily exercise, such as walks.
• Try to get some sunlight every day.
• Avoid using alcohol or other substances.
• Get as much rest as possible.
• Connect with friends, and join a support group for new parents.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.