Recognizing Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders

These symptoms may look unexpected:

• Agitation
• Anger
• Insomnia
• Hypervigilance
• Drug and/or alcohol dependence

If you think you may be suffering from a perinatal mood disorder, please know that you are not alone, that you are not to blame, and that you can be well again.

Many of the mothers that I have encountered since becoming a clinical therapist have echoed the relief I experienced when we agree on the challenge of parenthood and the realistic toll that a newborn can take on one’s psyche.

When I was two weeks postpartum with my first child, I walked into a “Mommy & Me Support Group” hoping to see a handful of other mothers that looked just like me: sleep-deprived, spit up on my shoulder, hair in a messy bun and yoga pants. I hoped that I would be validated in my struggle; to learn that I was not alone in feeling like I had just entered into the hardest time period of my life. Luckily, I was met with the warm smile of a social worker who informed me that although I had mistaken the time of the class, that she’d be happy to sit down and talk one-on-one with me. An hour later, I walked away feeling lighter and relieved to know that the range of feelings I was experiencing were all normal and to be expected.

After several weeks of attending my local hospital’s “Mommy & Me” support group as a new mother, I felt emboldened by learning from the collective knowledge of the group, validated by seeing others with bags under their eyes, and hopeful in seeing mothers with older babies who were getting more sleep. If you or a loved one has recently given birth or received a child by adoption, my hope for you is that you’ve found a place to be validated and encouraged. If you are struggling with more severe symptoms and think you may be suffering from a perinatal mood disorder, please consider making an appointment to begin healing today.

Postpartum mood and anxiety disorders can affect partners and adoptive parents too. Symptoms can appear anytime in the first year, not just the first few weeks. If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out to an obstetrician, pediatrician or therapist. The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262), is free, confidential and available 24/7. Postpartum Support International also offers help and support groups. If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call or text 988 or go to the nearest emergency room.

For immediate assistance to schedule an appointment, please connect with one of our Client Care Specialists at (630) 718-0717.

Related reading:

The Dream of a Family: Coping With Infertility

Make the Stress of Mothering Less Smothering

What Are the Causes of Depression?

Individual Therapy at Fox Valley Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression?

The baby blues are common feelings of sadness, tearfulness and worry that usually ease within the first two weeks after birth. Postpartum depression and anxiety are more intense, last longer, and make it harder to function or enjoy daily life.

What are signs of a postpartum mood or anxiety disorder?

Signs can include persistent sadness, constant worry, racing or intrusive thoughts, trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps, irritability or anger, feeling disconnected from the baby, and losing interest in things you used to enjoy.

When do postpartum mood disorders start?

They can begin during pregnancy or any time in the first year after birth, and also after a pregnancy loss. Symptoms do not always appear right away.

Can partners and adoptive parents have postpartum depression?

Yes. Fathers, partners and adoptive parents can also experience depression and anxiety after a baby arrives, and they deserve support too.

Where can I get help for postpartum depression or anxiety?

Postpartum mood disorders are treatable, and you are not alone. Fox Valley Institute therapists support new and expecting parents in Naperville and by telehealth across Illinois. Call (630) 718-0717 to get started. If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call or text 988 or call 911 right away.