Recognizing the Signs of Postpartum Anxiety
Awareness of maternal mental health is finally receiving the attention it deserves. But understanding the difference between postpartum emotional ups and downs and more serious issues like postpartum anxiety can still feel unclear. Many new parents are left wondering: Are my feelings normal, or is it time to seek help?
In a recent conversation with Carley Schweet, founder of Hello Postpartum and mother of two, we explored the real-life signs and symptoms of postpartum anxiety, a maternal mental health disorder that affects as many as 1 in 4 new parents.
What Is Postpartum Anxiety?
Unlike postpartum depression, which is more commonly discussed, postpartum anxiety can often go unnoticed or misdiagnosed. It may not come with persistent sadness. Instead, it can show up as overplanning, obsessive behaviors, or an inability to relax even when the baby is sleeping.
“I logged every feed, diaper change, nap, down to the second,” Schweet said, reflecting on her early postpartum days. “If I didn’t, or if someone else forgot to, I’d feel irrationally upset. I couldn’t sleep even when my baby was asleep.”
These kinds of thought spirals, combined with excessive worry, racing thoughts, insomnia, or even physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, are hallmark signs of postpartum anxiety.
Signs to Watch For
Every postpartum experience is different, but here are common indicators that may suggest a new parent is dealing with more than just the typical challenges of early parenthood:
Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, even when baby is resting
Excessive researching or “Googling” of every symptom or behavior
Feeling easily overwhelmed by daily tasks
Intense irritability or outbursts of anger
A sense of dread or panic that doesn’t go away
Over-controlling baby routines to feel a sense of safety
As Schweet explains, new mothers often feel pressure to be perfect partners, caregivers, and household managers, sometimes at the cost of their own wellbeing.
“Not sleeping deeply affected how I showed up emotionally. I was quick to anger and anxiety. I didn’t know how to ask for help, and I didn’t even recognize I needed it,” she said.
While lack of sleep can worsen symptoms, postpartum anxiety is rooted in a mix of hormonal changes, past trauma, and the massive emotional shift that occurs when welcoming a baby.
Support is Not a Luxury- It’s a Must
Unfortunately, many hospitals offer little mental health follow-up for postpartum patients. “You leave the hospital with a giant packet, but not a real plan,” said Schweet. “We don’t need another printed handout. We need personalized support and actual tools.”
Another point of contempt was in outdated hospital protocol. Schweet reported that many hospitals still discharge patients with a thick and impersonal packet of information to get started. There is no guide or modern resources offered at the point of hospital discharge.
When to Seek Help After Birth
If postpartum anxiety is interfering with your sleep, relationships, or sense of peace, it’s time to speak with a professional. “You don't have to be in crisis to reach out,” said Schweet. “In fact, the sooner you get support, the better your recovery will feel.”
Early intervention can prevent worsening symptoms and help you develop healthier coping tools. Whether it’s a postpartum doula or a virtual care session, options now exist that are more accessible than ever.
Recognizing the signs of postpartum anxiety is the first step in reclaiming your wellness. You deserve support that goes beyond the basics. You deserve to feel seen, heard, and equipped as you navigate life after birth.
Need someone to talk to?
MissPoppins offers personalized virtual support for new parents. From maternal mental health check-ins to postpartum planning and sleep coaching, our certified experts are here to help.
For more information on your free first consultation visit misspoppins.io.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. If you are experiencing mental health symptoms, please consult a licensed therapist or healthcare provider.