Having a baby is one of the biggest life changes that we can experience. It can also be a time of tremendous highs and lows. Many new parents feel overwhelmed, anxious, and moody when their baby is born. In fact, it is estimated that up to 80% of new mothers - and some new fathers - will experience the ‘baby blues’. Some parents will experience further challenges including postpartum depression and postnatal anxiety. The good news is that these issues are highly treatable.
What is the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression?
The baby blues will usually begin right after birth, and symptoms will subside by the time your baby is a few weeks old. Symptoms include:
Mood swings
Poor eating habits and self-care
Feeling irritable, overwhelmed, and anxious
On the other hand, symptoms of postpartum depression include:
Feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and hopelessness
Difficulty bonding with your baby
Worrying about not being a good enough mother
Struggling to eat, sleep, or take care of your baby
Experiencing anxiety and panic attacks
How can I manage the baby blues?
It is important to look after your physical needs when you are experiencing the baby blues. This includes sleeping as often as you can, eating good food, and exercising.
It is also important to reach out for support when needed and accept help when it is offered. Doing so doesn’t make you a bad mom - it makes you a new mom!
What is postnatal anxiety?
Many people who experience postnatal depression will also feel quite anxious. Postpartum anxiety is marked by a number of physical and psychological symptoms, including:
Muscle tension
Headaches
Rapid breathing
Heart palpitations
Feeling tense, nervous, and on edge
Expecting the worst
Overthinking and ruminating
How can I manage postnatal worry?
There are some things that you can do to help yourself cope with postpartum anxiety. These include progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness, and physical exercise.
What if it’s postpartum depression or postnatal anxiety?
Please remember that you are not alone. Many women like you will experience postnatal depression and/or anxiety. It’s also important to know that there are evidence-based treatments that can be used to support you through your postnatal depression and/or anxiety.
At our psychology clinic, we have three psychologists who can support you through your pregnancy - Dr. Kate Prozeller, Dr. Vassiliki Simoglou, and Pashmi Khare (M.Sc.)
Call us now to find out more about how we can support you with postnatal depression, anxiety, and/or relationship challenges.
We are here to support you and your family.
