When Worry Won’t Quit: A Guide to Postpartum Anxiety

Having a baby is a life-changing experience filled with joy, excitement, and let’s be honest, a bit of chaos. While we often hear about postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety is another common challenge that many new moms face—but it doesn’t get nearly as much attention. If you’re a new mom who feels like your mind is running a marathon of “what ifs,” you’re not alone. Let’s talk about postpartum anxiety, what it feels like, and how to manage it with compassion and care.

So, what exactly is postpartum anxiety? In simple terms, it’s when the usual new-mom worries about your baby’s well-being start to feel all-consuming. Every cough, every cry, or even the thought of leaving the house can trigger a tidal wave of anxiety. Instead of enjoying those precious newborn snuggles, you might find yourself lying awake at night, heart racing, imagining worst-case scenarios. Sound familiar?

It’s important to know that postpartum anxiety doesn’t mean you’re failing as a mom. In fact, it’s incredibly common. Many new moms experience this overwhelming feeling of worry, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. But recognizing the signs is the first step to getting help. Maybe you’ve noticed yourself feeling on edge all the time, or perhaps you’re finding it hard to relax, even when your baby is napping peacefully. You might even experience physical symptoms like a racing heart, trouble breathing, or dizziness. All of this can leave you feeling exhausted, both mentally and physically.

You might be wondering, “Why am I feeling this way?” The truth is, there isn’t one simple answer. Postpartum anxiety can come from a mix of things—hormonal shifts after birth, lack of sleep (because, let’s face it, newborns aren’t known for their great sleep schedules), or even a history of anxiety before pregnancy. It’s also common in moms who’ve had a difficult birth experience or those who are trying to adjust to the rollercoaster ride of motherhood for the first time.

Now, you might ask, “How is this different from postpartum depression?” That’s a great question! While both can happen after childbirth, postpartum depression often involves deep feelings of sadness, disinterest in activities, or even feeling disconnected from your baby. Postpartum anxiety, on the other hand, is more about persistent, racing worries that just won’t quit, even when everything seems fine on the outside.

The good news is that postpartum anxiety is treatable. There are plenty of ways to manage it and start feeling more like yourself again. First, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Talking to a therapist who specializes in postpartum mental health can be incredibly helpful. Sometimes just saying your fears out loud can take away some of their power. A therapist can help you make sense of your feelings and teach you practical ways to ease your anxiety.

Another great way to manage postpartum anxiety is to lean on your support system. It’s easy to feel like you have to do everything yourself, but asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether it’s your partner, a close friend, or a new moms’ group, surrounding yourself with people who get what you’re going through can make all the difference.

And let’s not forget about self-care! Yes, I know—self-care feels like a luxury when you’re busy keeping a tiny human alive. But it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Think small: maybe you take five minutes to sip a hot cup of tea (while it’s still hot!) or sneak in a few deep breaths when the baby’s finally asleep. Tiny moments of calm can help soothe your anxious mind and body.

Another thing that helps? Routines. I know, babies aren’t exactly known for sticking to schedules, but even small, predictable routines can help you feel a little more grounded in your day. Maybe it’s a morning walk with the stroller, or a bedtime ritual that helps signal to your brain it’s time to wind down.

Lastly, remember that you don’t have to do it all perfectly. It’s okay to take shortcuts, say no to extra responsibilities, or turn off your phone when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Give yourself permission to rest and recover without the pressure of being a "supermom." The dishes can wait. Right now, your well-being matters most.

If postpartum anxiety is making it hard for you to enjoy this special time, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Therapy, support groups, and self-compassion can all work together to help you find peace in the chaos of new motherhood.