What is Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum Anxiety
It was the middle of the night, Katie had just finished feeding her baby and laid him back in the crib. She could hear his deep breaths, but despite being able to hear his inhales and exhales, she could not put the fear out of her head that something was wrong. She told herself over and over that everything was fine, but the nagging thought would not go away until she got out of bed and checked on her baby. It’s not just at nighttime either, she has intense worries throughout the day that she just can’t shake.
Katie was suffering from Postpartum Anxiety. She experienced recurring thoughts and worries along with many other symptoms such as restlessness and difficulty focusing. Katie is not alone. A recent study found that more moms experience Postpartum Anxiety than Postpartum Depression, even though the latter is talked about more often.
What is Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety (PPA) is often paired with postpartum depression (PPD). They share similar symptoms but are not the same condition. Like PPD, women suffering with PPA have changes in eating & sleeping habits, and difficulty concentrating, but PPA tends to be more physical. Those struggling with PPA can feel dizzy, nauseous, accelerated heartbeat, difficulty sitting still, difficulty focusing, and strong feelings of panic, anxiety, or worry.
Constant thoughts and feelings of worry and concern are the hallmark of postpartum anxiety. This symptom is often dismissed as “new mom worry.” At least 15% of new moms struggle with PPA, but this condition is likely underreported.
The causes and risks
During pregnancy, brains are changed by surges of different hormones and chemicals. These changes are great for increasing bonding and empathy with your brand new little peanut. Unfortunately, these changes can also cause the emotions to go to the extreme, and the next thing you know, you’re constantly worrying, grinding your teeth, and pacing around the house.
Anxiety can also start earlier than the birth of your child. Many women feel anxiety issues starting as early as their first trimester of pregnancy. The changes in the brain start in the early months of pregnancy and continue through birth and breastfeeding.
Living with PPA can make things difficult and even prevent you from doing things you usually do. Many women with PPA find themselves avoiding certain situations, activities, and events because of the anxious thoughts. Many women keep their thoughts to themselves, worried that sharing he information will lead to intense consequences or problems.
Living with PPA can often cause depression. Those suffering feel trapped in their worries and thoughts, leading to feeling depressed. It becomes a vicious cycle of fear and worry. The more you dwell on your fears and anxiety, the worse it gets.
How is it treated?
If you’re still not sure if you’re just experiencing “new mom worry” or something else, please reach out and talk to someone about it. These thoughts & worries only intensify in secrecy. Talking openly with your doctor, your partner, and your support group can empower you. Sharing your worried thoughts can help you with the obsessing and redundant thoughts.
Going for a walk, or light physical exercise can reduce symptoms. It releases excess energy and can reduce the strain of anxiety.
Seeking help from an experienced therapist can be the most beneficial form of help. A therapist can give you coping tips. Therapists can help you discover your triggers and manage them. You don’t have to suffer through PPA alone. I can help. Call me today.
