Is It Just “Baby Blues” or Postpartum Depression? A Houston Therapist Explains
The first few weeks after having a baby can be a whirlwind — physically, emotionally, and mentally. Many new parents describe feeling overwhelmed, tearful, or anxious, especially as hormones shift and sleep disappears. These feelings are incredibly common — but sometimes, what starts as “baby blues” can become something more serious.
At the Center for Postpartum & Family Health (CPFH), we specialize in helping parents navigate this delicate transition. In this FAQ, our Houston-based therapists explain how to tell the difference between normal postpartum adjustment and clinical postpartum depression — and what local support is available if you need help.
What are “baby blues”?
A: “Baby blues” affect about 70–80% of new moms and are considered a normal adjustment period after birth. They typically:
Begin within a few days of delivery
Include mood swings, tearfulness, irritability, or anxiety
Peak around days 4–10 postpartum
Resolve naturally within two weeks
Baby blues are the result of hormonal shifts, exhaustion, and emotional overload. Support, rest, hydration, and reassurance often help them pass.
🪷 If your symptoms persist beyond two weeks or feel intense, it may be time to reach out for postpartum therapy at CPFH.
How is postpartum depression different?
A: Postpartum depression (PPD) is more serious and longer lasting than baby blues. Common signs include:
Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Difficulty bonding with your baby
Changes in appetite or sleep beyond what’s expected
Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
Thoughts of guilt, shame, or inadequacy
Feeling numb, detached, or “not like yourself”
PPD can start anytime within the first year after childbirth — sometimes even months later. Unlike baby blues, it usually doesn’t go away on its own.
💛 The good news? PPD is treatable with therapy, support, and sometimes medication. Most parents recover fully with help.
How do I know when to call a therapist?
A: Reach out if:
It’s been more than two weeks since birth and symptoms haven’t improved
You’re crying daily or feeling persistently down
You feel anxious, angry, or disconnected most of the day
You have intrusive thoughts about harm coming to your baby or yourself
You don’t have to wait until things feel “bad enough.” Early support leads to faster recovery and less shame. Many of our clients say therapy felt like “finally exhaling.”
🪷 Schedule a confidential consultation with one of our Houston postpartum therapists.
What local resources can help with postpartum depression in Houston or The Woodlands?
A: You’re not alone — Houston has a growing network of maternal mental health resources. We recommend:
Postpartum Support International – Texas Chapter – 24/7 helpline and peer support.
The Motherhood Center Houston – Postpartum doula, classes, and community groups.
Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women – Specialized care and psychiatry referrals.
CPFH Postpartum Support – Virtual and in-person therapy across Houston, The Woodlands, and Texas.
If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, please reach out for immediate help: 📞 Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 1-800-944-4773 (PSI HelpLine).
What treatments are available for postpartum depression?
A: At CPFH, we use evidence-based therapies like:
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to reframe self-critical thoughts
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for emotional regulation
Trauma-informed approaches to address birth or NICU trauma
Partner or family sessions to strengthen support systems
Therapy helps you understand what’s happening, reduce shame, and rebuild your sense of self. You’re not “broken” — you’re healing through a major life transition.
How can partners or family members offer support?
A: Encourage rest, validate feelings, and remind mom she’s not alone. Offer practical help — meals, laundry, bottle washing — and emotional connection (“You’re doing an amazing job, even when it feels hard”).
Partners can also attend sessions to learn how to co-regulate, share the mental load, and recognize warning signs early.
📍 Serving families across Houston, The Woodlands, Spring, and throughout Texas (telehealth available).
About the Author
Lauren Pasqua, PsyD, PMH-C, Licensed Psychologist (TX License #36214) Executive Director, Center for Postpartum & Family Health (CPFH)
Credentials: PsyD in Clinical Psychology, Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional (PMH-C), DBT and TBRI-trained clinician. Experience: Over 20 years supporting parents, children, and families through life transitions. Professional Profiles:
Last Medically Reviewed: October 21, 2025 Reviewer: Lauren Pasqua, PsyD, PMH-C