What is the term for depression that occurs after giving birth?

The term for depression that occurs after giving birth is known as postpartum depression. This condition specifically affects individuals following childbirth and can encompass a wide range of emotional challenges, including feelings of sadness, anxiety, and fatigue that can significantly impact a person's ability to care for themselves and their newborn.

Postpartum depression is distinct in its timing and the context in which it arises—after the physiological and psychological changes associated with childbirth. It may require intervention and treatment to help the affected individuals manage their symptoms effectively.

In contrast, seasonal affective disorder refers to depression that is related to changes in seasons, typically occurring in winter months due to reduced sunlight. Psychotic depression includes severe symptoms where a person experiences delusions or hallucinations, while chronic depression describes a persistent depressive disorder that lasts for at least two years. Each of these conditions has its own characteristics and causes, emphasizing why postpartum depression is uniquely identified among them.