Understanding Postpartum Anxiety: Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Support
The birth of a new baby is mostly thought of as a time of great joy and celebration,
however, for many moms (first time and repeat!) the postpartum period can usher in
feelings of anxiety and worry. It is natural to experience some level of apprehension
after giving birth, or to fixate on how your baby is feeding, sleeping, growing etc., but
postpartum anxiety (PPA) goes beyond typical worries. PPA can significantly impact a
mother’s well-being. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what postpartum anxiety is, how to
recognize its symptoms, and the importance of seeking support.
What is Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety is a common but often overlooked mental health condition that
affects many new mothers. We often hear in the media, and in the maternal mental
health world about postpartum depression (PPD), but PPA is somewhat different. It
involves excessive worry, fear, and nervousness that can interfere with daily activities
and disrupt the bonding process with the newborn. Unlike the “baby blues,” which are
transient and generally resolve within a few weeks of childbirth, postpartum anxiety
persists over time and may worsen without any intervention. One example of PPA might
be obsessive thoughts about baby breathing at night and not being able to sleep at all
for fear of something happening to your baby if you sleep while they are asleep in a safe
sleep space. Another example might be being unable to take 1 hour away from baby for
self-care even if a trusted partner or grandparent is with the baby.
Recognizing Symptoms:
Symptoms of postpartum anxiety can vary from mild to severe and may include:
- Persistent worry or fear about the baby’s health, safety, or well-being.
- Racing thoughts or inability to quiet the mind.
- Physical symptoms such as restlessness, muscle tension, or difficulty sleeping.
- Irritability or mood swings.
- Avoidance of certain activities or situations due to fear or anxiety.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
It’s essential to recognize that postpartum anxiety can manifest differently in each
individual, and symptoms may overlap with other perinatal mood disorders such as
postpartum depression or postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Seeking Support:
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of postpartum anxiety, its crucial
to seek support from healthcare professionals, therapists, or support groups specializing
in perinatal mental health. Here are some steps you can take:
- Talk to your healthcare provider (this can be your OBGYN or your baby’s
pediatrician). Be open and honest about your feelings and experiences. Your
healthcare provider can offer guidance, support, and referrals to mental health
professionals if needed. - Reach out to loved ones: Don’t hesitate to lean on friends and family for
emotional support and practical assistance. Sharing your feelings with trusted
individuals can help alleviate some of the burden. - Join a support group: Connecting with other mothers who are experiencing
similar challenges can be incredibly validating and empowering. Look for local or
online support groups where you can share experiences, tips, and resources. - Practice self-care: Prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation and stress
reduction, such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies you enjoy. Remember that
taking care of yourself is essential for your overall well-being and ability to care
for your baby. - Consider therapy: Various modalities of therapy including psychodynamic
therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems
Therapy have been shown to be effective in treating postpartum anxiety. A
therapist can help you develop coping strategies and tools to manage your
symptoms.
Postpartum anxiety is a common and treatable condition that affects many new
mothers. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking support early on, you can take
steps to improve your quality of life and well-being. Remember that you are not alone,
and there is help available to guide you through this challenging time.