You’re the proud mother of a new baby. You looked forward to this for months. So why are you crying?

For the first week or 2 after giving birth, as many as 8 out of 10 new moms feel sad or anxious. No wonder. Having a baby is stressful.

If the feelings last for more than a couple of weeks or begin weeks after you give birth, you may be suffering from postpartum depression. This condition affects about 1 out of 10 new mothers. Postpartum depression is treatable, but it can get worse if you don’t get help.

You may have postpartum depression if you have some of the following symptoms:

• Sadness
• Extreme tiredness
• Irritability
• Inability to sleep
• Eating less or more than usual
• Too much or too little concern for your baby
• Loss of interest in hobbies

• Ask for help with housework.
• Nap when your baby naps.
• Talk with your partner, family, and friends about your feelings.
• Join a postpartum depression support group