Explained | What is postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is a dangerous mental health condition which puts affected new mothers at risk of being suicidal. The issue, often ignored, has been propelled to headlines with the demise of BJP leader BS Yediyurappa's granddaughter Dr Soundarya. Read on to know more about the condition and its treatment.

Dr Soundarya, granddaughter of former Karnataka chief minister BS Yediyurappa, was in her early 30s when her life suddenly came to an end on Friday. Soundarya was a doctor by profession, member of an influential family, happily married to another doctor and mother of a six-month-old. Yet, she lost the battle of her life to postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that affects several new mothers in India and is rarely talked about. Most women suffer through depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy believing that it is a part of the process. It is not. Postpartum depression is a dangerous, yet treatable condition, which can put those affected at risk of suicidal behaviour.

Postpartum depression is a dangerous medical illness involving feelings of extreme sadness, indifference and/or anxiety, as well as changes in energy, sleep and appetite. It carries risks for the mother and child.

During pregnancy and the period shortly after delivery, mothers go through a lot of physical, emotional, financial and social changes. This puts some women at risk of developing mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

Over half of all new mothers experience 'baby blues', which involves crying for no reason, irritability, restlessness and anxiety. But baby blues are different than postpartum depression as they last only a week or two.

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If these feelings go on for a longer period of time, it can be postpartum depression.