Welcoming a new baby is undoubtedly a life-changing experience, but it’s not always joyful every minute of the day. For many new parents, the postpartum period can bring unexpected emotions: sadness, overwhelm, fear, or even numbness. If this sounds familiar, you’re not the only one—and it doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent.
May is Maternal Mental Health Month. At WFMC Health, we want every parent to feel safe, supported, and informed during the postpartum journey. Let’s talk about what postpartum anxiety and depression can look like, how to recognize the signs, and what you can do to show up for yourself during this time.
The “Baby Blues” vs. Postpartum Mood Disorders
After giving birth, it’s common to feel weepy, irritable, or anxious in the first week or two. These feelings (referred to as the “baby blues”) are temporary and caused by hormone changes, sleep deprivation, and the huge adjustment of caring for a newborn.
But if those feelings don’t go away—or if they start to feel heavier—they might be signs of something more serious, like postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety.
What Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Can Look Like
Postpartum mood disorders can show up in different ways, and not everyone has the same experience. Common signs can include:
- Persistently feeling down, hopeless, sad, or empty
- Losing interest in hobbies or other activities you typically enjoy
- Feeling disconnected from your baby
- Struggling to bond or feeling like you’re not a “good enough” parent
- Intense worry or panic that doesn’t go away
- Racing thoughts, irritability, or feeling on edge
- Difficulty sleeping, even when the baby sleeps
- Changes in appetite or energy
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please know—this is not your fault, and you are not alone.
It Can Happen to Anyone
Postpartum depression and anxiety can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or how many children you’ve had. It can start right after delivery or even weeks or months later. And it doesn’t mean you don’t love your baby.
Being open about your mental health doesn’t make you weak. It’s actually the opposite! Taking care of yourself is one of the best things you can do for your baby and your family.
How to Get Support
The first step? Talk to someone. A trusted provider, a therapist, your partner, or a friend. You likely won’t have all the answers right away, but it’s important to start the conversation.
- Schedule an appointment with your primary care or OB provider to discuss your symptoms
- Reach out to a professional counselor, especially those trained in postpartum mental health
- Join support groups, in person or online, where you can make connections with other parents going through similar experiences
- Medication, if recommended and prescribed by your provider, can be a safe and effective avenue to explore
Also, don’t underestimate the power of rest, nourishment, and accepting help from others during this time. Support can look like a warm meal from a neighbor, a close friend watching the baby while you nap, or your partner listening without judgment.
You Deserve to Feel Better
If you’re struggling, it’s not because you’re doing something wrong—it’s because you’re human. Your physical recovery after birth is important, but your mental health matters just as much. You don’t have to wait until you hit a breaking point to ask for help; you are worthy of support right now.
At WFMC Health, we’re here to walk alongside you during every part of your parenting journey. Our experienced providers understand the emotional and physical demands of the “fourth trimester” postpartum period, and we’re here to help you feel like you again. Every step towards healing is an act of love for you, your baby, and your family.
This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.
