Bringing a new life into the world is often painted as a time of joy, glowing skin, and sleepy cuddles. But for many new mothers, it can also be a time of overwhelming fear, sadness, and emotional disorientation. While most people have heard of postpartum depression, fewer understand what new moms can go through, including postpartum anxiety.

These aren’t signs of weakness or failure. They’re real, diagnosable conditions rooted in a mix of hormonal shifts, emotional stress, lack of sleep, and a fast-paced life transition that is becoming a parent.

The Quiet Storm of Postpartum Anxiety and Depression

Let’s start by getting one thing straight: postpartum mental health struggles are more common than you think. According to recent studies, about 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, and recent studies suggest that 1 in 5 women experience postpartum anxiety. Yet, because these conditions are often misunderstood or minimized, many mothers suffer in silence, questioning their worth and worrying they’re “not cut out for motherhood.”

But that’s not true—not even close.

Is It More Than Just "Baby Blues"?

It’s normal to feel emotional in the first two weeks after giving birth. Mood swings, feeling overwhelmed, and trouble sleeping are some symptoms of what’s commonly called the “baby blues.” But if those feelings persist beyond two weeks, intensify, or start interfering with daily functioning, it could be something more.

Signs of Postpartum Depression:

  • Persistent low mood with excessive crying, severe mood swings, hopelessness, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt.

  • Emotional disconnection, including difficulty bonding with the baby and withdrawing from loved ones.

  • Changes in sleep and appetite, ranging from insomnia to oversleeping, or eating too little or too much.

  • Loss of interest and energy, marked by fatigue, irritability, and reduced enjoyment in previously pleasurable activities.

  • Serious mental health concerns, such as trouble concentrating, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Signs of Postpartum Anxiety:

  • Physical signs include disrupted sleep, heart palpitations, nausea, shortness of breath, muscle tension, and restlessness.

  • Emotional distress may appear as constant worry, racing thoughts, irritability, or intense fear of unlikely dangers.

  • Cognitive struggles like forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, and difficulty relaxing are common.

  • Behavioral changes can include avoidance of people or places, excessive caution, or compulsive checking.

  • Control-seeking behaviors may emerge, such as becoming overly controlling or perfectionistic in daily routines.

What Can Help

  • Mental Health Consultations (Therapy) — Speaking with a psychologist, counselor, or therapist can provide a safe space to process feelings and develop coping strategies.

  • Perinatology - Postpartum Consultation — This is to provide care and support to new parents in the time following childbirth, aiming to ensure that parents receive the necessary guidance and assistance during this transformative phase.

  • Medication — For some, medication may be necessary and effective. This should always be discussed during your consultations with a psychiatrist.

  • Support Groups — Whether online or in-person, connecting with other moms can be deeply validating. Don’t forget that emotional support from loved ones can make a big difference!

You’re Not Alone, Mom

Motherhood is not a one-size-fits-all experience. It can be beautiful and challenging all at once. If you’re struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression, know this: you are not alone, you are not to blame, and with the right support, you can get through it stronger and better.

More than mood swings, postpartum anxiety and depression reflect deep, diagnosable shifts in a mother’s well-being. So, let’s keep talking, trusting ourselves, and building a community that listens; because motherhood was never meant to be walked alone.

At Kindred, we’re here for every step of your pregnancy, postpartum and parenting journey. Whether you’re looking for expert care, emotional support or just a small reminder that you’re doing your best, Kindred is here for you. 

References

1 in 5 women have anxiety disorders in pregnancy, postpartum. (2019, August 2). Healio.com. https://www.healio.com/news/psychiatry/20190802/1-in-5-women-have-anxiety-disorders-in-pregnancy-postpartum

Amer, S. A., Zaitoun, N. A., Abdelsalam, H. A., Abbas, A., Ramadan, M. S., Ayal, H. M., Ba-Gais, A., Basha, N. M., Allahham, A., Agyenim, E. B., & Al-Shroby, W. A. (2024). Exploring predictors and prevalence of postpartum depression among mothers: Multinational study. BMC Public Health, 24(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-18502-0

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, April 12). Postpartum Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22693-postpartum-anxiety

Mayo Clinic. (2022, November 24). Postpartum depression - symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20376617

Last medically reviewed on April 30, 2025.