Hayden Panettiere Is Undergoing a Second Round of Treatment For Postpartum Depression

Seven months after first seeking out help for postpartum depression, Nashville star Hayden Panettiere announced that she is undergoing a second round of treatment. The actress revealed the news in an open and honest tweet, saying that PPD has "impacted every aspect" of her life.

pic.twitter.com/DwCq4c5XJf

— hayden panettiere (@haydenpanettier) May 12, 2016

Hayden first announced her battle with postpartum depression in October 2015, almost a year after giving birth to her daughter, Kaya. Since then, Hayden has been a vocal proponent for postpartum care and postpartum depression awareness, saying, "Women need to know that they're not alone, and that it does heal."

Up to 16 percent of moms are dealing with postpartum depression — and many don't even know it. What to do when the dark cloud turns out to be more than just the baby blues? NYC psychologist Dr. Karen Binder-Brynes offered us her best tips on how to tell if you're suffering from postpartum depression and what can be done to overcome it. In Dr. Binder-Brynes's own words:

"The first step is in recognizing that [you're suffering from the] more severe condition we call postpartum depression, and not just having your typical postbirth blues. Most mothers experience some 'letdown' after their baby's birth, but what we are addressing here is the more severe and long-lasting syndrome of postpartum depression. There is still tremendous shame around this condition and often women loathe to admit these dark emotions to their husbands, relatives, friends, and even their doctors."

So how does one go about identifying the symptoms of postpartum depression? Here are five behaviors (and suggestions for help) that should help you make the assessment.

Sign 1: You're Just Not Bouncing Back
Thinkstock

Sign 1: You're Just Not Bouncing Back

If it's been more than a month since your baby was born and you're not feeling at all like your old self yet, something may be off. If you simply feel like there is something not right or normal about this mood, trust your instinct.

Sign 2: You're Feeling Withdrawn and Uncommunicative
Thinkstock | George Doyle

Sign 2: You're Feeling Withdrawn and Uncommunicative

If the thought of friends and family coming to visit the new baby leaves you with a feeling of dread and you silence your phone every time it rings, something may be off. Depression often manifests itself in a feeling of isolation and not wanting to take part in the outside world.

Sign 3: You're Feeling Negative About Motherhood and the New Baby
Thinkstock

Sign 3: You're Feeling Negative About Motherhood and the New Baby

Pay attention to your reaction the next time someone asks you about the baby or being a new parent in general. If your first instinct is to complain or find fault in the newborn, something may be off. Being a new mom isn't easy (for anyone!), but you should be able to seek out the positive.

Sign 4: Dark Thoughts
Thinkstock

Sign 4: Dark Thoughts

If you find your mind delving into dark places, don't brush it off. Thoughts of hurting yourself, your baby, or your partner should be taken seriously. It's not an easy conversation to have, but it's important to confide in someone you trust and seek help for this.

Sign 5: You're Feeling Listless and Unable to Bond With Your Baby
Thinkstock | LuminaStock

Sign 5: You're Feeling Listless and Unable to Bond With Your Baby

Not every woman's maternal instincts kick in instantaneously. But if it's been a few weeks and you're still not feeling a connection with your baby, something may be askew.

What to Do About It: Take Action, Immediately
Thinkstock

What to Do About It: Take Action, Immediately

Admitting that you think you're depressed is a lot more difficult than telling someone that you have a sore throat or stomach bug. But the only way to make your way out of a dark and isolated place is by opening up about it. You will get through this, but not on your own. Allow your loved ones and trusted medical professionals to support you on your journey to happiness and embracing motherhood.