What Does Postpartum Anxiety Look Like? Thoughts from Your Therapist Palm Desert

Postpartum Anxiety

Postpartum anxiety is a condition characterized by excessive and persistent worry, fear, and anxiety experienced by new mothers following childbirth. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of postpartum anxiety so that appropriate support and treatment can be sought. Here are some common indicators from Your Therapist Palm Desert:

Excessive Worry

Therapist Palm Desert Lauren Fox, LCSW supports postpartum women

New mothers with postpartum anxiety often experience overwhelming and irrational worries about their baby's health and safety. They may constantly fear that something bad will happen to the baby or that they won't be able to protect or care for their child adequately. They may also have worries about their own safety or the safety of other loved ones.

Restlessness and Irritability

Women with postpartum anxiety may find it difficult to relax or rest, even when physically tired. They may feel constantly on edge, have difficulty concentrating, and be easily irritated or agitated. If you notice that you are snappier than usual or particular relationships are more difficult now than before, you may be experiencing the symptoms of irritability that are very common in postpartum anxiety.

Physical Symptoms

Postpartum anxiety can manifest in physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, and nausea. These symptoms can be distressing and may resemble panic attacks. Speak to your PCP, OB, therapist or your child’s pediatriacian about what you are experiencing. If you are looking for referrals for any of these practitioners, reach out to me, I am happy to help you get connected.

Sleep Disturbances

New mothers often experience disrupted sleep due to caring for a newborn. However, women with postpartum anxiety may have excessive difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, even when given the opportunity. Their anxiety and racing thoughts can make it challenging to relax and get restful sleep. If you notice you are awake even when the baby is sleeping peacefully, this could also point to symptoms of postpartum anxiety.

Intrusive Thoughts

Intrusive thoughts are unwelcome and distressing thoughts or images that come into a person's mind involuntarily. Women with postpartum anxiety may experience intrusive thoughts related to harm befalling their baby, themselves, or loved ones, despite having no intention of acting on those thoughts. Intrusive thoughts are very common but can also be very upsetting. You can get help to reduce or alleviate intrusive thoughts completely by speaking to your care providers.

Avoidance Behaviors

Some women with postpartum anxiety may engage in avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding leaving the house or being alone with their baby, as a way to manage their anxiety and perceived risks. They may also avoid activities they previously enjoyed out of concern that harm could come from participation.

If you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional, whether your doctor or mental health provider. Postpartum anxiety is a treatable condition, and early intervention can lead to effective management and improved well-being for both the mother and baby.

I hope this blog about postpartum anxiety was helpful for you. If you are looking for a perinatal and/or postpartum therapist, reach out to me ! We can schedule a 15 minute phone consultation to discuss what is happening for you and explore if more individualized mental health support could be beneficial for you. I would be happy to help get you connected. Feel free to call me at 805-930-9355 for a free 15 minute phone consultation. If you are looking for help with pregnancy, postpartum , pregnancy loss, infertility , birth trauma, hypnotherapy, or new mothers support groups, you can read more about how I can help within this website.

Serving the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas, including: Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, Thousand Palms, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Indio, Bermuda Dunes, Coachella, Thermal, Mecca, Desert Hot Springs, Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree and virtually across the state of California.

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