Coping with Postpartum Anxiety
What You Should Know About Postpartum Anxiety
When we talk about the postpartum period, we often hear about the “baby blues” or postpartum depression, but what about postpartum anxiety?
If your mind feels like it’s constantly racing, or you’re overwhelmed with "what if" thoughts that make it hard to rest, you're not alone. Postpartum anxiety is common, real, and treatable and the more we talk about it, the more we can support new parents through it!
💭 What Is Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety is a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) that can happen during pregnancy or after birth, usually within the first year. While some worry is completely normal for new parents, postpartum anxiety goes beyond typical concern, it can become intrusive, consuming, and constant.
⚠️ Common Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety
You might be experiencing postpartum anxiety if you notice:
Constant or excessive worry, especially about baby’s health or safety
Racing thoughts that won’t slow down
Feeling “on edge,” panicked, or restless
Trouble sleeping (even when baby is asleep)
Physical symptoms: rapid heartbeat, nausea, dizziness, muscle tension
A need to constantly check on the baby or control every detail
Difficulty focusing or making decisions
Having trouble leaving baby alone with others (even your spouse)
These thoughts are often persistent and feel out of your control, even if you know they’re unlikely or irrational.
🤱 You’re Not “Too Sensitive” or Overreacting
Postpartum anxiety is a real condition caused by a mix of hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, trauma, and life changes. It can affect anyone, even if you’ve never had anxiety before.
You are not broken, and you’re not failing. You are a parent navigating a major transition, and your brain is asking for help.
🧠 What’s the Difference Between Postpartum Anxiety and Depression?
While the two often overlap, postpartum anxiety is usually more focused on worry and fear, while postpartum depression often includes more sadness, withdrawal, and hopelessness.
You can have one, the other, or both and either way, you deserve support.
🌿 Ways to Manage and Heal from Postpartum Anxiety
Here are some gentle and effective steps you can take:
Talk to someone (a doula, therapist, or trusted friend)
Practice grounding techniques (deep breathing, sensory check-ins, movement)
Limit stimulation- (especially social media and the news)
Create a calming routine- (even 5–10 minutes counts!)
Ask for help (baby care, household tasks, and meals)
Explore therapy (CBT and EMDR are both helpful for anxiety)
Consider medication (there's no shame in needing chemical supports !)
Join a postpartum support group (Local Facebook groups is a great option for this!)
🌷 From Your Postpartum Doula
As a postpartum doula, I often see signs of anxiety before parents even realize what they're experiencing. You don't have to suffer in silence or feel like you're “too much.” I’m here to listen without judgment, help create calming routines, and make sure you’re supported emotionally, physically, and practically.
At Melodies in Bloom Doula Services LLC, I believe in supporting the whole parent and that includes your mental health!
You are not alone. You are not overreacting. You are doing an amazing job.