How do postpartum blues differ from postpartum depression in terms of onset and duration?

• A. Blues occur within the first 2 weeks and are mild; depression persists beyond 2 weeks and is more severe.
• B. Blues occur within the first 2 weeks and are severe; depression is mild.
• C. Blues occur after 6 weeks; depression begins within two weeks.
• D. Blues occur only during pregnancy; depression only after.

Answer: (D)

Postpartum blues are short-lived mood changes that begin in the first few days after delivery, are usually mild, and resolve within about 1–2 weeks. Postpartum depression is more severe, with lasting symptoms that begin within the first weeks after birth (often within 4 weeks) and persist for weeks to months if untreated. So the best description is that blues start early after birth and are brief, while depression starts soon after birth and lasts longer. The idea that blues occur only during pregnancy or that blues are severe is not accurate, and blues do not start after six weeks.