Final answer:
Postpartum blues occurs within a few days after childbirth and lasts up to two weeks, with milder symptoms that usually resolve on their own. Postpartum depression, however, can start any time within the first year after giving birth and is more severe, often requiring clinical intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The time frame used to distinguish postpartum depression from postpartum blues is based on the duration and severity of symptoms following childbirth. Postpartum blues, often referred to as the baby blues, typically occurs within the first two to three days after delivery and can last up to two weeks. These feelings are relatively mild and often resolve on their own. In contrast, postpartum depression is a more severe form of emotional distress that can begin at any time during the first year after childbirth and requires clinical attention. Symptoms may include severe mood swings, feelings of hopelessness, and difficulty bonding with the baby. Due to its potential seriousness, it's crucial to monitor and treat postpartum depression appropriately to mitigate its long-term effects on both the mother and the child.