Although postpartum depression is most talked about, postpartum anxiety is just as common but not spoken about as much. Postpartum anxiety is the feeling of fear and worry, just like normal anxiety but it is linked to having a baby and being a parent. It usually leads parents to excessively worrying all day everyday about many things you wouldn’t normally have so much worry about.
New moms are told the symptoms of postpartum depressions like sadness but not all moms know the symptoms of postpartum anxiety. Although those who suffer from postpartum depression may also suffer with anxiety along with it.
Signs and symptoms
There are some signs and symptoms to help those who think they may be suffering from postpartum anxiety. Although you should keep in mind that not all worry is down to postpartum anxiety. A lot of new moms have worries but if you feel it is getting too much to deal with and is taking over your mind then it may be postpartum anxiety. Some of the symptoms include,
- Constant worrying that you can’t control or ease
- Feelings of dread
- Sleeping difficulties (this can be a hard one to see as it is common with having a new-born)
- Racing thoughts
- Sweating and trembling
- Nausea
- Hyperventilation
- Heart palpitations
- Overwhelming stress and worry of being a good parent
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Feeling agitated or irritable
- Feeling guilt or self-blame
It’s important to be able to recognise the signs of postpartum anxiety whether you’re looking out for yourself or someone else. Those suffering may show some signs including,
- Not letting anyone hold the baby in fear of something happening.
- Constantly questioning their parenting ability
- Crying for no obvious reason
- Not wanting to go out/socialise
- Neglecting their self-care
- Constantly worrying about their baby’s health even when they have been reassured everything is fine.
- Worrying about things that might happen in the future
- Making up scenarios of what could go wrong in every situation
- Not bonding with your baby or not enjoying being around them
Causes
Although there isn’t a pacific reason as to why some mothers experience postpartum anxiety there are a few risk factors. Those who may have suffered with general anxiety before giving birth are at a higher risk for developing postpartum anxiety. Also having a family history of postpartum anxiety puts you at risk too. The hormonal changes your body goes through during pregnancy and birth can also play a role in postpartum anxiety. These hormonal changes affect your overall mood and heighten your emotions.
Some other risk factors include,
- Being sleep deprived
- Society pressure and feeling expected to make sure you’re a ‘good mom’
- Your personality, those who are already very sensitive and emotional are more likely to suffer from anxiety.
- Having previous trauma experiences within having children for example, stillbirth or losing a child to illness.
- Relationship challenges as these often come after having a baby.
- The stress of looking after a newborn
- Having no support system
- Financial or housing struggles
Those who feel they may be at risk may want to try and prevent it from happening. You could try by building up your support system, making sure you have people around you who care and are a big support for you. Learn ways to cope with stress and the life changes you’re going to go through. Talk with your midwife and build a relationship with them, this will give you a sense of relief knowing you have them to talk to about your concerns and worries.
Treatment for postpartum anxiety
It is important that you get the help you need if you think you have postpartum anxiety. Postpartum anxiety can affect the relationship and bond you have with your baby. Recognising your signs and symptoms is the first step in getting help. You should always go to your doctors and tell them about your concerns regarding your worries and fears. Your doctor will provide treatment depending on the severity of your condition.
Doctors usually prescribe antidepressants or therapy to treat moderate to severe postpartum anxiety. Antidepressants are safe to take during pregnancy as well as when you are breastfeeding. Your doctors will assess you and make sure you’re getting the correct treatment you need. They may recommend therapy, specifically cognitive behaviour therapy. This therapy helps you to focus on your worries and fears and helps you understand them. By understanding them it can help you overcome them or help you deal with them.
Be sure to go to your 6 weeks check up and let them know how you are doing mentally as well as physically.
Tips to help your postpartum anxiety
There are a few things you can try to ease your postpartum anxiety, although it’s important to remember that it can be just temporary. If you feel you need a break then ask for help, asking for help is not a bad thing. Everyone needs help from time to time even if it’s just someone looking after the baby for a few hours. Caring for a baby can be hard and just that little bit of help from someone can make you feel less stressed. It could be doing some laundry for you while you feed the baby or taking the baby out so you can get some sleep.
Pregnancy and birth can take its toll on your physical health, that’s why exercising regularly is important. Exercising not only helps you physically it also helps with your mental health, exercise is great for helping anxiety. Physical activities and activities that promote better breathing have great benefits for those with anxiety. Other things you may find helpful is joining support groups for new mothers. This will allow you to share your thoughts and worries with other moms that may be experiencing the same thing. By sharing your experiences, you can help each other by finding things that work for you or them and sharing them with each other. Hearing about other people’s struggles may help you understand your own and realise you’re not alone.
