Signs of Postpartum Anxiety — What New Parents Need to Know
Having a new baby is supposed to be one of the happiest times of your life. But for many new parents — especially mothers — it can also bring an overwhelming wave of worry, fear and dread that just won’t stop. If that sounds familiar, you may be experiencing postpartum anxiety.
Postpartum anxiety is more common than most people realise — and it’s more common than postpartum depression. Yet it’s far less talked about. Many parents suffer in silence, assuming constant worry is just part of being a “good parent.”
It’s not. And you don’t have to feel this way.
What is Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety (PPA) is an anxiety disorder that develops after the birth of a child. It can affect mothers, fathers and other new parents. Unlike the “baby blues” which typically resolve within two weeks, postpartum anxiety can persist for months if left untreated.
Signs of Postpartum Anxiety
Postpartum anxiety can look different for everyone, but common signs include:
Emotional Signs
- Constant, uncontrollable worrying — especially about your baby’s health and safety
- Feeling like something terrible is about to happen
- Irritability and feeling on edge
- Difficulty enjoying time with your baby
- Fear of being alone with your baby
- Intrusive thoughts about harm coming to your baby
Physical Signs
- Racing heart or heart palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or nausea
- Muscle tension or shaking
- Difficulty sleeping — even when your baby sleeps
- Loss of appetite
Behavioural Signs
- Constantly checking on your baby
- Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety
- Needing constant reassurance from others
- Difficulty making decisions
- Over-researching symptoms and health concerns
Postpartum Anxiety vs Postpartum Depression — What’s the Difference?
Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety often occur together, but they feel different. Postpartum depression typically involves persistent sadness, hopelessness and withdrawal. Postpartum anxiety is characterized more by fear, worry and a racing mind. It’s possible — and common — to experience both at the same time.
What Causes Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety can be triggered by a combination of hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, the enormous responsibility of caring for a newborn, previous anxiety or trauma, and a lack of support. Having a personal or family history of anxiety increases the risk.
You Don’t Have to White-Knuckle Through This
Postpartum anxiety is not a character flaw, a sign of weakness or evidence that you’re a bad parent. It is a medical condition — and it is treatable. Evidence-based therapy, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), has been shown to be highly effective for postpartum anxiety.
Postpartum Mental Health Support in Brampton and Ontario
At ChngeWrks, we provide trauma-informed, evidence-based psychotherapy for new and expecting parents across Brampton, Peel Region and Ontario. Virtual sessions are available province-wide — so you can get support from the comfort of your home.
Laura Thornhill, MSW, RSW is a Registered Clinical Social Worker with specialized training in perinatal mental health and trauma recovery. She also works in partnership with The Womb in Milton — a leading perinatal wellness centre.
If you’re struggling, please reach out. A free 15-minute consultation is available. Contact us today.
This article was written by Laura Thornhill, MSW RSW, and developed with editorial research assistance. All clinical content reflects Laura’s professional expertise and judgment.
References & Further Reading
- American Psychological Association. (2023). Postpartum depression and anxiety. apa.org
- Fairbrother, N., & Woody, S. R. (2008). New mothers’ thoughts of harm related to the newborn. Archives of Women’s Mental Health, 11(3), 221–229.
- Wenzel, A. (2011). Anxiety in childbearing women: Diagnosis and treatment. American Psychological Association.
- CAMH. (2023). Postpartum mood disorders. camh.ca
- Misri, S., & Joe, B. (2021). Pregnancy blues: What every woman needs to know. Dundurn Press.
