Are antidepressants needed to get over the baby blues?

Not normally: Baby blues is normally a brief period of uncontrolled crying that occurs in the first couple of weeks after delivery. It is mainly related to the hormone shifts that happen after delivery and sleep deprivation. If a new mother is finding that her moods are bad enough to affect her ability to take care of herself or her children, that is postpartum depression, not baby blues, and needs treatment.

Not usually: Baby blues is generally only going to last a few days to a week or so. So baby blues doesn't require anything but time and some support from your family. If the crying, frustration or depression lasts longer, you may have post-partum depression. Depression is more serious. If you aren't sure, call your doctor. Even if your exam isn't for a few weeks, we want to know if you are having trouble.

Not necessarily: Baby blues typically go away within a few days to a few weeks. If you have a supportive family and have people who can stay with you and help you, you may not need antidepressants.