More Than Just the “Baby Blues”

According to experts, many people still confuse temporary postpartum sadness, commonly known as the “baby blues,” with true postpartum depression.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Ai Van explained that immediately after childbirth, a mother’s body undergoes dramatic hormonal changes. Estrogen and progesterone levels suddenly drop, directly affecting the nervous system and emotional state.

“You can imagine the brain as a machine running at high speed that suddenly loses its power source. This imbalance makes mothers more vulnerable to emotional breakdowns, negative thoughts, or unusual behaviors,” the doctor explained.

In addition, prolonged sleep deprivation, postpartum pain, and the pressure of caring for a newborn can push mothers into a psychological “black hole.”

Warning Signs That Should Not Be Ignored

According to Dr. Nguyen Thi Ai Van, families should pay special attention if the following symptoms persist for more than two weeks:

Persistent insomnia even when the baby is asleep and the environment is quiet, or excessive sleeping while still feeling exhausted;
Emotional numbness, loss of connection with the baby, reluctance to hold the child, or avoidance of people around them;
Constant self-blame and feelings of being a “bad mother”;
Thoughts of self-harm or wanting to “free” both mother and child.
According to the specialist, these are dangerous warning signs that require psychiatric evaluation as early as possible.

Family Is the Most Important “Shield”

Doctors believe that family support plays an especially important role in both preventing and supporting the treatment of postpartum depression.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Ai Van recommends that family members prioritize helping mothers get uninterrupted sleep by sharing childcare responsibilities, especially at night.

In addition, a nutritious diet, light physical activity totaling about 150 minutes per week, and supplementation with Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and probiotics can significantly support mental health.

Most importantly, husbands and family members should listen and empathize rather than judge or offer pressure-filled encouragement such as “you must try harder” or “every mother goes through this.”

“Sometimes, empathy itself is the most important medicine for postpartum women,” the doctor shared.

Many Modern Treatment Methods Available

Currently, Bệnh viện Bạch Mai is implementing several modern treatment methods for patients with postpartum depression.

According to Dr. Nguyen Thi Ai Van, patients may be prescribed new-generation antidepressants that are considered highly safe, have minimal side effects, and do not cause dependence.

In addition, the Institute of Mental Health is applying Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) - a non-invasive technique that helps regulate brain activity - along with specialized psychotherapies such as CBT and BA to address psychological difficulties and help mothers regain balance in life.

Experts emphasize that postpartum depression can be effectively treated if detected early.

“Protecting the mother also means protecting the child’s physical and mental development, as well as the happiness of the entire family,” Dr. Nguyen Thi Ai Van stressed.