It usually begins on or around the third day after delivery and lasts about 10 to 14 days. It is post-partum depression, and approximately 50 to 80 percent of all new mothers (whether they are delivering their first or tenth child) suffer from what our grandmothers and great grandmothers called "the baby blues."

The likely cause for the baby blues is the significant and rapid drop in progesterone levels that occurs in the woman's body after giving birth - a dramatic change with potentially major impact on the emotions of the new mom. The psychological shift to instant parenthood, the physical stress of the birth and sleep deprivation are also possible factors. These are the signs of post-partum depression:

• Difficulty making decisions

• Feelings of inadequacy

• Fear of being left alone

• Fantasies of disaster

• Feelings of not wanting the baby

• Desire to leave the family

• Panic attacks

• General fear and anxiety

• Feeling out of control

• Disinterest in previously pleasurable activities

• Inability to sleep

• Nightmares

The good news is - there's a lot you can do prevent, minimize or eliminate your symptoms. Here's a quick reference to help keep you a happy Mom:

• Ask for help after the baby is born. You've done quite enough for a while. Either get a housekeeper, or ask family and friends to make dinners, clean the house, do laundry, run errands and take care of any other kids you may have.

• Get outdoors. Sit on the back patio and relax. Have a friend take you for a drive in the country. Take a stroll around the block with the baby.

• Take life slow. Play with your baby. Visit with family and friends. Listen to your favorite music. Rent a few upbeat movies.

• Eat nutritiously. Pay attention to what you put in your mouth! Develop a good eating program that includes pure omega-3 oils with EPA and DHA.

• Exercise. Do it slowly at first. Remember that stroll around the block with the baby? Do it. Check with you neighborhood recreational or fitness centers. Many have special exercise classes for post-natal moms.

• Don't neglect your sleep. This may be easier said than done, but it's critical to your well-being. Sleep when the baby sleeps, which should be often.

• Breast-feed if possible. Breast-feeding helps increase the level of Prolactin (a calming hormone) in your body.

• Join a support group. Neighborhood newspapers sometimes list support groups in your area, and churches and synagogues sometimes have support groups. You can find one easily.

• Ask your doctor if medication is warranted. There are a number of medications on the market that can help you. Many of the medications are safe for moms who are breast-feeding.

• Seek therapy. A trained professional can work wonders.

As soon as you begin to feel overwhelmed, TAKE ACTION! The longer you wait, the more difficult it may get. But with a little preparation and awareness, you can blow off the baby blues and rock that new baby to sleep with a smile on your face.