Did you know postpartum anxiety may actually be more common than postpartum depression? And that you can have one without the other, or both at the same time?
Postpartum depression doesn’t get talked about nearly enough. But postpartum anxiety? It’s like the second cousin nobody mentions at the family reunion.
Some worry is normal (and even helpful)
Anxiety is part of how we keep ourselves and our families safe. It’s adaptive! Most new parents have moments of worry or scary “what if” thoughts. For a lot of people, those thoughts are easy to brush off and they slowly fade as time goes on.
It becomes a problem when the worry starts running the show. When it shows up in everyday situations, feels bigger than what’s actually happening, and leaves you constantly on edge.
And if you’ve experienced anxiety or depression before becoming a parent, you’re more likely to experience it postpartum, sometimes more intensely than before.
Signs to watch for
Postpartum anxiety can look like:
Constant or excessive worry
A feeling of dread, like something bad is about to happen
Racing thoughts that are hard to turn off
Trouble concentrating
Changes in eating or sleeping (including not being able to sleep even when the baby is sleeping)
Physical symptoms like dizziness, hot flashes, a racing heart, or nausea
Many parents with anxiety also have intrusive thoughts: sudden, upsetting images or ideas about something happening to the baby. These are common, and having them doesn’t mean you want them to happen or that you’ll act on them. They’re worth talking about with someone who understands.
Why this matters
Postpartum anxiety is often missed because parents (and providers) are mainly asking about depression. So keep these signs in mind as you move through pregnancy and postpartum. Keep an eye on yourself and your partner, because partners can experience this too. If something feels off, say something.
Where to get support
If you’re struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression, you don’t have to wait until it gets worse to reach out. Our friends at Perinatal Support Washington have a free Warm Line where you can talk with someone who gets it and get connected to resources.
📞 Call or text 1-888-404-7763 (se habla español)
🌐 perinatalsupport.org
You can also talk with your OB, midwife, or primary care provider.
If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or you’re afraid to be alone with your baby, call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262), call or text 988, or call 911.
Warmly,
Doula Deb
