So…….you have a newborn, some spit-up on your shoulder, and this nagging thought: “Why am I not enjoying this - I just don’t feel like my normal self?”

Let me say this—you’re not a bad mom and you didn’t cause this.

You might just be dealing with postpartum depression (PPD).

And if you’re wondering, “How long does postpartum depression last?” I can help answer that.

The Honest Answer to How Long Does PPD Last?

Postpartum depression doesn’t come with an expiration date unfortunately.

For some moms, it can last a few weeks.

For others, it can stretch on for months or even beyond a year if it’s not treated.

This isn’t your forever and it’s not your fault.

Mother sitting sadly with her young baby.

When Does PPD Start?

PPD can show up shortly after birth or it can sneak in a little later.

Hormones, lack of sleep, and the pressure to do all the things can make you feel like you’re losing it.

(I promise: you’re not. You just birthed a human and that’s a lot.)

Without treatment, PPD might stick around longer than you’d like.

But when you get help?

Most moms start feeling like themselves again within six months to a year.

Therapy, medication, and increased support can make all the difference.

Early Signs of PPD to Watch For

Recognizing PPD early can help you get the treatment you need sooner, which can then decrease the time you have symptoms.

Key warning signs include:

Persistent sadness or emptiness
Feeling disconnected from your baby or others
Chronic fatigue or changes in your sleep
Changes in appetite
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy

Real Talk

If you’re in the trenches right now, you’re probably thinking, “That all makes sense, but I need to feel better like...yesterday.”

I hear you.

Reach out to your doctor, find a counselor, or text that friend who totally gets you.

Start small—like stepping outside for 5 minutes or eating something that isn’t your kid’s leftover Goldfish.

Little wins count.

Takeaways

PPD doesn’t last forever.

It’s a season, not a lifetime.

You’re not broken—you’re just adjusting to a whole new world.

Keep going, keep asking for help, and don’t forget—you’re a freaking warrior.

So, how long does postpartum depression last? Not forever, mama. You’ve got this.

And when you’re on the other side of it, you’ll be even stronger than you are right now. (Which is saying a lot, because honestly, moms are superheroes.)

With love and solidarity,