Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: Signs, Causes, and Treatment

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Bringing a new baby into your life is one of the biggest changes you can experience. Along with joy and excitement, it can also bring exhaustion, emotional ups and downs, and moments of doubt.

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed during this time, and these feelings can go beyond the “baby blues.” Postpartum depression and anxiety (PPD and PPA) affect about 1 in 7 new mothers, making these experiences far more common than many people think.¹

If you’ve been feeling unlike yourself after having a baby, this guide can help you understand what’s happening, recognize the signs of PPD and PPA, and explore what support and treatment can look like.

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression, sometimes called postnatal depression, is a form of depression that can start during pregnancy or anytime within the first year after having a baby.

It’s more than just feeling tired or emotional. While many new parents experience the “baby blues,” postpartum depression is more intense, lasts longer, and makes it harder to get through daily life.

Experiencing postpartum depression is not a failure. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent. And it doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong. Postpartum depression is a real medical condition that deserves support and compassion.

Signs of postpartum depression

Postpartum depression can show up in different ways, and not everyone experiences the same symptoms. Some signs are emotional, while others are physical or behavioral.

Emotional symptoms

You might notice:

• Ongoing sadness or low mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or guilt
• Irritability or mood swings
• Feeling disconnected from your baby

Many parents feel ashamed of these emotions, which can make them harder to talk about.

Physical symptoms

Some symptoms can feel like part of normal new-parent life, and there will be some overlap, but they may signal something more:

• Extreme exhaustion beyond typical newborn tiredness
• Changes in appetite
• Trouble sleeping, even when your baby is asleep
• Low energy or motivation

Thoughts and behaviors

Postpartum depression can also affect how you think and interact with others:

• Difficulty focusing or making decisions
• Pulling away from friends or family
• Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Feeling disconnected from moments you expected to enjoy
• Feeling guilty or worthless
• Having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

If you notice several of these signs that last more than two weeks, it might be time to talk to a provider about getting support.

Thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby require immediate attention and care. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

If you’re supporting someone you love, you may also find this guide on helping a loved one with depression helpful.

Postpartum anxiety symptoms

Postpartum anxiety is closely related to postpartum depression, and many people experience both at the same time. However, anxiety can also exist on its own. Around 20% of women experience maternal anxiety disorders.²

Postpartum anxiety often shows up as:

• Constant worry about your baby’s health or safety
• Racing or intrusive thoughts
• Trouble sleeping, even when exhausted
• Physical symptoms like a racing heart or nausea
• Feeling on edge or unable to relax

Anxiety during and after pregnancy is very common and can affect many new parents. You might feel like you can’t slow down or “shut off” your mind, even in the moments when you have a chance to relax.

Baby blues vs. postpartum depression

It’s normal to feel emotional after having a baby, but there’s an important difference between baby blues and postpartum depression.

Baby blues:

• Affect many new parents
• Include mood swings, tearfulness, and feeling overwhelmed
• Typically begin a few days after birth and improve within 1–2 weeks

Postpartum depression:

• Is more intense and longer-lasting
• Can begin within the first weeks or develop gradually
• Interferes with daily life and your ability to function

If your symptoms don’t go away after a couple of weeks or feel like they’re getting worse, it may be time to reach out for support.

What causes postpartum depression and anxiety?

There isn’t a single cause of postpartum depression or anxiety. They usually develop from different factors in your life.

These can all contribute to PPD and PPA:

• Hormonal changes after birth
• Sleep deprivation from caring for a newborn
• Physical recovery from pregnancy and delivery
• Emotional stress and life adjustments
• A history of mental health concerns
• Lack of support or stressful life circumstances

What matters most to remember is that postpartum depression and anxiety are never your fault. There’s no single reason they happen, and nothing you did caused them.

How long does postpartum depression last?

Without support, postpartum depression can last for months or even longer than a year after your baby is born. Everyone’s experience with PPD is different, though.

With access to the right care, many people begin to feel better within a few weeks to a few months.

Postpartum depression may not go away on its own, but it is treatable. Getting support early can make a difference in how quickly you start to feel like yourself again.

Less common postpartum conditions

Postpartum OCD

Postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves intrusive, distressing thoughts, often centered around the baby’s safety, along with behaviors attempting to reduce that anxiety.

Intrusive thoughts can feel alarming, but they are unwanted and do not reflect your intentions. Postpartum OCD is treatable, especially with therapy.

Postpartum depression in dads and partners

Postpartum depression doesn’t only affect birthing parents. About 1 in 10 dads and non-birthing partners experience it as well.

In partners, symptoms may show up differently, such as:

• Irritability or anger
• Withdrawal from family
• Working more to avoid being at home

Treatment and therapy can be just as effective for non-birthing partners as it can be for new mothers.

Postpartum depression treatment

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to postpartum depression treatment. The approaches that your care team takes will depend on your unique needs, preferences, and comfort level.

Therapy

Therapy is one of the most effective ways to address postpartum depression. Approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and more can help you process emotions, navigate identity changes, and build coping strategies.

Medication management

For some people, medication can be an important part of care. Antidepressants can help regulate mood, and many options are considered safe for those who are breastfeeding. Some newer antidepressant options, like Zurzuvae, are specifically FDA-approved for adults with postpartum depression.

A psychiatric provider can help you weigh your options and decide what feels right for you.

If you’re considering medication, read more about the benefits and considerations in our guide.

Support groups and peer support

Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can reduce feelings of isolation and shame. Support groups for postpartum depression and anxiety can be a helpful addition to therapy because they offer shared understanding and encouragement.

When to seek help

It can be hard to know when what you’re feeling goes beyond typical stress or exhaustion.

You may want to reach out for support if:

• Symptoms last longer than two weeks
• You’re having trouble caring for yourself or your baby
• You’re withdrawing from loved ones
• You feel overwhelmed most of the day
• You’re not able to enjoy moments you expected to

Talking to your primary care provider, OB-GYN, or another mental health professional can be a good place to start in getting the support you need. You don’t have to wait until things feel overwhelming to get the support you deserve. Reaching out early shows that you’re aware of what’s happening and care for both your well-being and your family’s.

Get postpartum mental health support at LightHeart Mental Health

LightHeart Mental Health offers therapy, psychiatry, medication management, and more for clients experiencing postpartum mental health concerns. Care is always personalized, with depression treatment options in-person at our Federal Way, WA, location and other offices around Washington. We also offer telehealth appointments, making it easier to access support during a busy and demanding time.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.

Frequently asked questions