Although having a baby is a joyous time for most women, it is very common for mothers to feel sad, afraid, angry, or anxious after childbirth. Postpartum blues almost always go away in a matter of days.
Postpartum depression lasts longer, is more intense, and often requires counseling and treatment.
Postpartum depression can occur after any birth, not just the first. Many new mothers are surprised at how fragile, alone, and overwhelmed they feel after the birth of a child. Their feelings don't seem to match their expectations. They fear that these feelings somehow mean that they are bad mothers. These feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger usually begin about 2-3 days after birth.