Becoming a mother is one of life’s most profound changes. And while it’s often met with joy and celebration, it’s also a time when new moms are extremely susceptible to depression and anxiety. Between hormonal fluctuations, chemical changes, physical recovery, and pure exhaustion – not to mention the challenges of caring for a newborn – it’s no surprise that most moms feel “the baby blues.” 

1 in 7 women, however, will experience a more extreme perinatal mood disorder. It can impact someone of any age, race, education and income level, and the symptoms can appear at any point during pregnancy through the first 12 months after birth. 

Because it’s often difficult to recognize what’s within the realm of typical postpartum stress and what needs closer attention, let’s take a look at some symptoms and risk factors. 

Postpartum Depression

About 10% of women experience significant depression during pregnancy, and 15% of women experience significant depression after childbirth – these stats can be twice as high for teen parents. 

Symptoms include: 

•       Feelings of anger, guilt, shame or hopelessness 
•       Difficulty bonding with or lack of interest in the baby
•       Sleep/appetite disturbances 

Risk factors can include personal or family history of depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), inadequate support, financial or marital stress, complications in pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding, infertility, and thyroid imbalance. 

Postpartum Anxiety 

Anxiety in the postpartum stage is often overlooked – we have a tendency to focus on feelings of depression, but anxiety-related disorders impact up to 20% of mothers. 

Symptoms include:

•       Constant worry or sense of foreboding 
•       Racing thoughts 
•       Sleep/appetite disturbances
•       Physical symptoms like hot flashes and nausea 

 The most misunderstood and misdiagnosed of all perinatal mood disorders is postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), with approximately 3-5% of new mothers developing symptoms. These can include intrusive thoughts related to the baby, compulsions to reduce fears and obsessions (cleaning, checking, counting), fear of being left alone with the baby, and hypervigilance in protecting the baby.

New mothers who experience this type of anxiety typically realize their thoughts are extreme and feel further distress about that. Risk factors are similar to those in postpartum depression. 

Postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) impacts approximately 9% of women after a traumatic childbirth experience – an unplanned c-section, NICU stay, feelings of powerlessness during birth, or past traumatic experiences may trigger this condition. 

How Are Perinatal Mood Disorders Treated? 

The first step is a diagnosis. Though there is not a specific diagnostic tool, your provider will administer a postpartum assessment and - most importantly - have a thorough conversation with you about your symptoms and experience. 

Communication is crucial during this time – connecting with a therapist will help you process the full spectrum of emotions, as well as provide coping skills and tools to help you manage. Though not all postpartum mood disorders require medication, it may be necessary to regulate and increase certain chemicals in your brain during this time.

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are the most utilized and researched medications for this purpose, as they boost serotonin levels with less side effects, and many are safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Don’t let the stigma surrounding mood disorders and medication prevent you from seeking help – treatment is often multifaceted. 

You Don’t Need to Do It Alone

With the right tools and support, you can manage and thrive in your new role as a mom. If you’re struggling, it’s okay to be your own advocate for the care you deserve. Talk to a trusted loved one, your doctor, or reach out to a therapist. There is even a postpartum-specific HelpLine to offer encouragement and connection to additional resources. Remember – it takes a village! We aren’t meant to go through motherhood alone.

If you're looking for extra help, or simply need to talk with someone about what you're feeling, feel free to give us a call and we'll be happy to match you with one of our maternal mental health therapists.