Symptoms and Signs of Postpartum Depression Symptoms of postpartum depression are similar to those of major depression and may include Baby blues (eg, rapid mood swings, irritability, anxiety, decreased concentration, insomnia, crying spells) Extreme sadness Mood swings Uncontrollable crying Insomnia or increased sleep Loss of appetite or overeating Irritability and anger Headaches and body aches and pains Extreme fatigue Unrealistic worries about or disinterest in the baby A feeling of being incapable of caring for the baby or of being inadequate as a mother Fear of harming the baby Guilt about her feelings Suicidal ideation Anxiety or panic attacks Typically, symptoms develop insidiously over 3 months, but onset can be more sudden.