Becoming a new mother can be one of the most joyful and rewarding experiences of your life, but it can also be challenging and overwhelming. Many new mothers experience postpartum anxiety and depression, which can make it difficult to bond with your baby and adjust to your new life. Here’s what you need to know:

What is Postpartum Anxiety and Depression?

Postpartum anxiety and depression are two different but related conditions that affect many new mothers. Postpartum depression is a mood disorder that can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in life. On the other hand, Postpartum anxiety, is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and anxiety that can interfere with daily activities.

When Does it Happen?

Postpartum anxiety and depression can happen anytime during the first year after childbirth. Symptoms can start within days or weeks after giving birth, and can last for several months or longer if left untreated.

How to Identify It?

It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of postpartum anxiety and depression, so that you can seek help if you need it. Some common symptoms include:

• Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty
• Crying often for no apparent reason
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Feeling guilty or worthless
• Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feeling irritable or angry
• Experiencing panic attacks
• Having recurrent, intrusive thoughts or worries about the baby

So, if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you identify the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Having a Postpartum Plan

It’s important to have a plan in place before you have your baby so that if you do experience postpartum anxiety or depression, you already have a plan to handle it. Here are some steps you can take to create a postpartum plan:

1. Identify a support person. This can be a partner, family member, or friend who you can rely on for emotional support and help with daily tasks.
2. Research local resources. Identify local resources such as support groups, counselors, and mental health clinics that specialize in postpartum depression and anxiety.
3. Have emergency numbers on hand. Make sure you have the phone numbers of your healthcare provider, local resources, and a hotline like Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773) in case you need immediate help.
4. Educate yourself. Learn about postpartum anxiety and depression and the treatment options available so that you can make informed decisions about your care.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Postpartum anxiety and depression are common, and there is no shame in seeking help to feel better. With the right support and treatment, you can overcome these challenges and enjoy this special time in your life.

This is not medical advise. Please seek care from your healthcare provider.

---

Thanks for reading! I’m Kristi, a momma of 2 and professional newborn photographer based in Reno NV. I specialize in capturing beautiful and timeless photos of newborns and their families. If you’re interested in scheduling a session, please don’t hesitate to contact me at kristigaytonphotography@gmail.com or visit my website at www.kristigaytonphotography.com I can’t wait to work with you and create beautiful memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.