Understanding and Overcoming Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: A Guide for New Moms
The arrival of a newborn is a profound journey marked by moments of joy and challenges. Yet, amidst this transformational period lies a silent struggle that affects far too many new moms: Postpartum depression and anxiety. Despite its prevalence and attention over the years, this topic often lingers in the shadows, burdened by stigma and misconceptions.
In this article, I am going to specifically address postpartum depression symptoms and symptoms of postpartum anxiety, which affect 1 in 5 moms in Texas and 1 in 7 nationwide. This often silent struggle can make the already challenging experience of new motherhood even harder.
I will discuss potential risk factors, effective treatment options, professional organizations, and emergency resources committed to perinatal mental health, as well as strategies for overcoming postpartum depression and anxiety.
Picture this:
You’re a mom with a newborn who is dependent on you for everything, and his only way to communicate is by crying. You are recovering from the rigors of childbirth, your body is sore, hormones are haywire, and your baby has not slept for more than 2 hours at a time. You go to the 6-week postpartum appointment. And score high on the post-natal depression scale, indicating you may have a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. Hopefully, your healthcare provider was able to offer you some support, guidance, and treatment options.
Understanding Postpartum Depression and Anxiety.
But let's back up for a moment. We need to grasp the severity of postpartum depression and anxiety. Postpartum depression and anxiety and other PMADs (Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders) are not fleeting emotions or “the baby blues.” The baby of blues affects 80% of new parents and typically resolves within two weeks, often without medical intervention. For most women, the blues are fleeting and uneventful and often go away on their own without medical treatment.
Some common symptoms of the “baby blues” include:
Trouble Concentrating
Fatigue
Irritability
Restlessness
Worry
Weepiness
A note to healthcare providers regarding “the blues.” The literature acknowledges and supports the time frame for the baby blues, which is immediately following birth up to 2 to 3 weeks postpartum. After that period, if symptoms of the blues persist, it is best practice for medical providers to assess for the presence of depression.
The bottom line is this.
If you or a patient are beyond three weeks postdelivery and are experiencing symptoms that mimic the blues, you no longer have the baby blues. You could be experiencing a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. Do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. Or contact me and let’s see how I may help
What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a major depressive disorder and typically occurs within one month to 1-year post-delivery. Early onset postpartum depression can present with symptoms of the baby blues; however, symptoms of postpartum depression are more persistent and go beyond the three weeks post-deliver. (Kleiman, 2017).
If you are more than three weeks up to one year postpartum and you are feeling symptoms of depression most of the day every day, you are experiencing postpartum depression
Do I have Postpartum Depression?
Feelings of anger or irritability
Feelings that you are not the right mom for your baby
Appetite and sleep disturbance
Crying and sadness last most of the day, nearly every day.
Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness
Loss of interest, joy, or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
Possible thoughts of harming the baby or yourself
Postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms are not always visible to the naked eye. A mom can look well and put on a smile but still have postpartum depression and anxiety.
TIP: If you answered “yes” to three or more of the above symptoms, you could have a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder, OR you may need more support. Reach out, and let’s chat to make sure.
Thoughts of harming yourself, your baby, or others are always an emergency, and you should seek help right away.
If you are thinking about suicide or harm to others, please go to your nearest emergency room and/or contact your local emergency services.
In a crisis call:
Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262 or 1-833-TLC-MAMA
In a crisis, call or text the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
What is Postpartum Anxiety?
Perinatal/Postpartum anxiety is the presence of excessive worry during pregnancy or the postpartum period. Anxiety is expected during this period. However, excessive fear and anxiety will make you feel irritable and tense most of the time.
Feeling tension
Irritable
Nervous in social situations
Feelings of pending doom
Preoccupation with uncontrollable worries is often related to harm coming to the self, particularly the baby.
Physical symptoms such as nausea, insomnia, and fatigue often are exacerbated.
It is common for new moms and parents to worry about the well-being and safety of their new baby. We measure Postpartum anxiety by the degree to which it interferes with a woman’s ability to function and get through the day and how much distress it is causing.
Risk Factors for developing a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder include:
Here are some risk factors for developing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
A sensitivity to the pregnancy/birth hormonal changes during pregnancy and birth
A personal or family history of depression, anxiety, or postpartum depression
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD or PMS)
Inadequate support in caring for the baby
Financial stress
Marital stress
Complications in pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding
A major recent life event: loss, house move, job loss
Mothers of multiples
Mothers whose infants are in Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU)
Mothers who’ve gone through infertility treatments
Women with a thyroid imbalance
Women with any form of diabetes (type 1, type 2 or gestational)
Research shows that a mix of these risk factors, along with sensitivity to pregnancy/ birth hormonal changes, places a woman at higher risk of a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder.
If you have any of these risk factors, let your doctor know so you can plan for care if needed.
Recognizing the impact of postpartum depression and anxiety on new moms and their families
Postpartum depression and anxiety can have a profound impact on the lives of new mothers and their families. These conditions can interfere with a mother's ability to bond with her baby, leading to difficulties establishing a strong emotional connection and potentially impacting the child's development. That child will go out into the world.
New mothers struggling with these conditions may have difficulty meeting the physical and emotional needs of their babies, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and further isolation. This can also strain relationships with partners, family members, and friends, as the new mom may withdraw from social interactions or feel unable to fulfill her expected roles and responsibilities.
The effects of postpartum depression and anxiety can also extend beyond the immediate family, as these conditions can impact the overall well-being and functioning of the household. Household chores, meal preparation, and other essential tasks may be neglected, further exacerbating the stress and challenges faced by the new family. https://www.postpartum.net/
Overcoming Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: self-help strategies
While seeking professional help is often necessary for managing postpartum depression and anxiety, there are also some self-help strategies that new mothers can implement to support their mental health and well-being.
One of the most important steps is to
Say how you feel, identify your safe person, and ask for help.
Connecting with a support network, whether it's family, friends, or online communities of new mothers, can also be incredibly beneficial. Sharing experiences, seeking advice, and feeling understood can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a sense of community and belonging.
This may involve establishing a consistent sleep routine. I know it is hard with a new baby, but making a sleep plan can be helpful. Mothers need at least 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep at a time.
Engaging in regular physical activity and making time for relaxation and stress-relief activities can help. Even as little as 5 minutes a day of gentle movement can help. Practicing mindfulness and being present at the moment can also help alleviate feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.
Support systems for new moms with Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
In addition to professional help, new mothers with postpartum depression and anxiety can benefit significantly from the support of family, friends, and community resources. Building a solid support network can provide the emotional, practical, and social assistance needed to navigate this challenging time.
Family members and close friends can offer practical help, such as assistance with household chores, meal preparation, or caring for the baby, allowing the new mother to rest and focus on her well-being. They can also provide a listening ear, offer encouragement, and help the new mother feel less isolated and alone.
Community resources, such as new mothers' support groups, postpartum doulas, and online forums, can also be invaluable sources of support. These groups provide a safe space for new mothers to share their experiences, learn from others, and find solace in knowing they are not alone in their struggles.
Postpartum Depression and Anxiety resources and organizations
For new mothers seeking additional information and support, there are several resources and organizations dedicated to addressing postpartum depression and anxiety. These can provide information, educational materials, and connections to professional and community-based services.
Organizations like
Postpartum Support International (PSI)
Call or text the Postpartum Support International HelpLine at 800-944-4773. You do not need a past or current diagnosis of postpartum depression or anxiety to ask for help.
How long does Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Last?
It is important to note that while we can not give a definite timeline for how long Postpartum Depression and Anxiety. Here is what I do know!
Postpartum Depression and Anxiety symptoms range from mild to severe
They affect 1 in 7 women
The symptoms of Postpartum Depression and Anxiety respond well to support and treatment.
You are not to blame; you are not alone, and with help, you will be well again!
Effective treatment for Postpartum Depression and Anxiety. Support for New Moms in Texas
Psychotherapy and counseling
Psychotherapy, a highly effective form of treatment that involves talk therapy and counseling, has been proven to be very beneficial for addressing postpartum depression and anxiety among new mothers in Texas. This therapy provides a secure and supportive environment for mothers to understand their struggles, develop effective coping mechanisms, and find relief. Therapists trained in the specific needs of pregnant and postpartum women have the expertise to guide mothers to their goals. It is important to find a therapist who has received specific training in addressing the unique needs of perinatal women or, at the very least, is competent in treating women and anxiety disorders. Just as you would seek out a specialized professional for a specific medical issue, such as not going to a dentist to fix your broken arm, choosing a therapist specifically trained to provide the support and care needed during this delicate phase of life can be more beneficial.
The bottom line is this. Find a healthcare professional who listens to and supports you in the way you deserve. If you have any questions or need extra guidance on finding the right therapists to treat your Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Symptoms. Reach out
Medication
In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage symptoms. Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, can help stabilize mood. Medication must be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider who can tailor the treatment to your needs.
Suppose you have any concerns about the safety of medications during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. In that case, speak to your healchare provider. When talking to your doctor about medication, consider asking:
Is this medication safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
What are the potential risks and benefits of taking this medication?
Are there any alternative treatments or medications with lower risks for me and my baby?
If your healthcare provider is unsure about the safety of a specific medication, Postpartum Support International has a Perinatal Psychiatric Consult Line for prescribers to consult FREE with trained psychiatrists specializing in treating Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders and inquire about the safety of specific medications.
A note to moms and parents:
If you ever feel like your concerns are not being heard or your questions are not taken seriously, seeking help elsewhere is vital. Your health and well-being, as well as that of your baby, are of the utmost importance, and it's crucial to have a healthcare provider who listens to and addresses your concerns. If you feel dismissed or unheard, consider seeking a second opinion from another healthcare provider who can provide the support and attention you need. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and your baby to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Support Groups
Support groups and resources are vital. They provide a safe space for new mothers to share experiences and seek guidance. Organizations like Postpartum Support International have free Weekly Online Support Groups with resources, helplines, and support groups. Online communities also provide convenient support from home and help moms connect with other moms who may be struggling and going through similar storms. Never underestimate the power of a group of people who share, support, and storyteller in a collective space.
Screening and Early Intervention
Early screening for postpartum depression and anxiety is an excellent step to early intervention of perinatal mood disorders. Tools like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) help healthcare providers identify symptoms early. The American Academy of Gynological ACOG recommends routine screening for postpartum depression during pregnancy and after-birth treatments.
Adding screening to routine prenatal and postpartum care can find postpartum depression. This can allow for early help and better results for moms and families.
Breaking the Silence
Many of us are working on treatment, advocacy, and support. More moms are talking to and supporting one another. Times are changing, and we are building more awareness.
The crux of the matter is this:
Postpartum depression and anxiety are treatable with proper intervention
You can ask for help despite how bad you feel. If you even suspect but are unsure if what you are feeling is a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. Ask for help!
You are not to blame; you are not alone, and with help, you will be well again!
Ask for help, be well,
Lyndsi
If you are a new mom looking for support and are worried about how you are feeling, reach out, and let’s see how I can help.