We often hear about postpartum depression, but there’s another common—and often overlooked—perinatal mental health condition that affects many new parents: postpartum anxiety.
It’s not just “new mom nerves.” It’s not just being a “worrier.”
And it’s far more common than most people realize.
If you’ve recently had a baby and feel constantly on edge, overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts, or like your mind just won’t slow down, you’re not alone—and you might be experiencing postpartum anxiety.
Let’s talk about what it looks like, how to recognize it, and what support can help.
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What Is Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety (PPA) is a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) that affects people during pregnancy or after childbirth. While it can happen on its own, it often exists alongside postpartum depression or OCD.
It’s characterized by persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that feels hard to control—and it often centers around your baby’s health and safety, your ability to parent, or general feelings of dread.
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Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety
Everyone worries sometimes—but postpartum anxiety is different. It can affect your daily life, your sleep, and your ability to enjoy your baby.
Common symptoms include:
• Racing thoughts you can’t turn off
• Constant worry about the baby, your body, or what might go wrong
• Restlessness or inability to sit still
• Tension in your body—tight jaw, clenched fists, shallow breathing
• Difficulty sleeping, even when the baby is asleep
• Feeling irritable or easily overwhelmed
• Physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, nausea, or dizziness
• Intrusive thoughts (upsetting “what if” images or fears you can’t control)
If you’re nodding along, this isn’t your fault—and you’re not “just overthinking.” These are signs your nervous system is stuck in a high-alert state.
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Why It Often Goes Unrecognized
Unlike postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety doesn’t always involve sadness. People with PPA might seem “on top of it” or extra attentive—but inside, they’re battling fear and tension.
Many parents feel pressure to hide their anxiety or chalk it up to being “a new mom,” especially when their concerns are dismissed by providers, partners, or well-meaning friends.
You might even feel guilt about your anxiety—like you should be grateful, not worried. But mental health challenges don’t mean you’re ungrateful. They mean you need support.
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What Causes Postpartum Anxiety?
Several factors can contribute, including:
• Hormonal shifts after birth
• Sleep deprivation
• History of anxiety or trauma
• Previous pregnancy or birth complications
• NICU stays or feeding challenges
• Lack of support or high-stress environments
Even people with no history of anxiety can develop PPA—it’s not a reflection of your strength or parenting ability.
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You’re Not Alone—and You’re Not Broken
Postpartum anxiety is treatable. With support, most people feel significantly better.
Effective options include:
• Therapy, especially approaches like CBT, somatic therapy, or EMDR
• Medication, when needed and safe for your feeding choices
• Postpartum doula care, which can reduce overwhelm and build confidence
• Nervous system tools, like breathwork, grounding, and movement
• Support groups with others who get it
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What Healing Can Look Like
Imagine waking up without dread.
Imagine feeling more present with your baby.
Imagine trusting your instincts instead of second-guessing them.
That’s possible.
Whether your baby is six weeks or six months old, you deserve to feel safe, calm, and supported. You don’t have to suffer in silence—and you don’t have to do it alone.
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If this sounds familiar, I see you.
As a therapist and doula specializing in perinatal mental health, I support individuals navigating postpartum anxiety, overwhelm, and identity shifts. Together, we can create space for your healing and your joy.
Reach out today to schedule a free consultation or learn more about how therapy and doula support can help.
