Postpartum depression education includes recognizing which finding as a concern?

• A. Frequent smiling
• B. Hyperactivity
• C. Excessive Sleepiness
• D. Episodes of irritability without justification

Answer: (D)

Postpartum depression education emphasizes recognizing mood changes that go beyond typical newborn adjustment. Episodes of irritability without a clear, justifiable cause signal a mood disturbance rather than normal stress, and they can seriously affect the mother’s ability to care for and bond with the baby. Irritability may appear alongside other depressive symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, and sleep or appetite changes, and it often requires screening and support. In contrast, frequent smiling or simply feeling tired from caring for a newborn are not themselves red flags for depression, and hyperactivity would raise concern for a different condition. Therefore, persistent irritability is the clue that prompts further assessment for postpartum depression.