Postpartum Anxiety vs. Postpartum Depression: What’s the Difference?
When Motherhood Doesn’t Feel Like You Expected
Motherhood is often portrayed as joyful, instinctive, and deeply fulfilling—but for many new mothers, it can also be overwhelming, isolating, and mentally exhausting. If you’re finding yourself consumed by worry, constantly on edge, or unusually sad after the birth of your child, you might be dealing with postpartum anxiety (PPA) or postpartum depression (PPD).
Understanding these two common perinatal mood disorders is essential for getting the support you need. You are not alone, and help is available.
Understanding Postpartum Depression (PPD)
Postpartum depression is one of the most commonly recognized mood disorders following childbirth. It can develop within the first few weeks after delivery or emerge gradually over the first year. Unlike the short-lived "baby blues," which affect up to 80% of new mothers and typically resolve within two weeks, PPD is more intense and longer-lasting.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
Difficulty bonding with your baby
Fatigue or low energy, even after rest
Changes in appetite or weight
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of guilt, shame, or worthlessness
Sleep disturbances (too much or too little)
In severe cases: intrusive thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
Many people associate postpartum depression with feelings of disconnection or withdrawal—but for some, it shows up as irritability, anger, or extreme guilt over perceived shortcomings as a parent.
Who Is at Risk for PPD?
While anyone can develop postpartum depression, certain factors can increase risk:
A personal or family history of depression or anxiety
Traumatic birth experience
Lack of social support
Challenges with breastfeeding
Sleep deprivation
Hormonal shifts
Past trauma or unresolved grief
PPD can affect anyone—regardless of background, age, or parenting experience. First-time parents and those with a history of maternal mental health struggles may be especially vulnerable.
What Is Postpartum Anxiety (PPA)?
Less talked about—but just as common—is postpartum anxiety. Studies suggest that up to 1 in 5 new mothers experience some form of postpartum anxiety, and many of them never receive a diagnosis.
Unlike depression, postpartum anxiety often presents as persistent worry, restlessness, and a sense of hypervigilance. You may feel like you’re always “on alert,” mentally rehearsing worst-case scenarios, or struggling to relax—even when things seem objectively fine.
Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety
Constant or excessive worry (especially about the baby’s safety or health)
Racing thoughts or inability to “shut your brain off”
Irritability, restlessness, or feeling “on edge”
Physical symptoms like nausea, headaches, dizziness, muscle tension, or a rapid heartbeat
Difficulty sleeping even when the baby is sleeping
Avoidance of situations perceived as risky (e.g., leaving the house, letting someone else watch the baby)
Repetitive behaviors or checking (e.g., repeatedly checking if the baby is breathing)
Postpartum anxiety can also overlap with postpartum OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), which includes unwanted intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, typically aimed at preventing harm. These thoughts are usually distressing and unwanted, and they don’t reflect your actual desires.
Different Types of Postpartum Anxiety:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – excessive worry about a wide range of concerns
Panic Disorder – sudden, intense episodes of fear with physical symptoms (panic attacks)
Postpartum OCD – repetitive, intrusive thoughts and compulsions, often related to the baby’s safety
Postpartum PTSD – anxiety symptoms linked to a traumatic birth or previous pregnancy loss
PPD and PPA: What’s the Overlap?
Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety frequently occur together. You may find yourself both deeply worried and emotionally numb, swinging between panic and sadness in a single day.
It's also common for symptoms to change over time. For example, what starts as intense worry may later evolve into persistent sadness or vice versa.
This overlap can make it hard to know exactly what you’re dealing with. What matters most is recognizing when something doesn’t feel right—and reaching out for support.
How Do Postpartum Mood Disorders Affect Parenting?
Untreated postpartum anxiety or depression can impact your ability to bond with your baby, your confidence as a parent, your relationship with your partner. It can even impact your physical health and long-term mental wellness.
When you’re running on empty emotionally, every task—feeding, changing, soothing—can feel monumental. Seeking help isn’t just an act of self-care; it’s a way to protect your relationship with your baby and give your family the healthiest start possible.
How a Maternal Mental Health Therapist Can Help
A maternal mental health therapist specializes in the unique emotional challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, and loss. Therapy provides a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can:
Name and validate what you’re feeling
Understand the root of your symptoms
Learn tools to manage anxiety or depressive thoughts
Reconnect with your sense of identity beyond motherhood
Explore underlying issues such as past trauma, grief, or unrealistic expectations
Whether you’re a first-time parent or navigating life after a second or third child, therapy can help you feel more grounded, present, and supported.
Therapeutic Approaches May Include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – to reframe anxious or depressive thought patterns
Mindfulness and grounding techniques – to soothe the nervous system
Somatic therapy – to address trauma stored in the body
Interpersonal therapy – to support relationship changes after childbirth
EMDR – if postpartum distress is linked to birth trauma or previous loss
What If You’re Not Sure Whether You Need Therapy?
Many parents hesitate to reach out for help because they feel like they “should” be happy, or that their struggles aren’t serious enough. But there’s no symptom threshold you need to meet to deserve support.
If you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed, disconnected, constantly on edge, or just not like yourself, that’s reason enough to talk to someone.
Self-Care Strategies for Postpartum Mental Health
In addition to therapy, here are some tools that may support your mental wellness during the postpartum period:
Sleep when you can – even short naps can restore your nervous system
Stay nourished – avoid skipping meals and hydrate often
Connect with others – seek out support groups, friends, or family members you trust
Limit social media – especially if it makes you feel “less than”
Practice mindfulness – even 5 minutes of deep breathing can regulate your body
Move your body – gentle walks, stretching, or yoga can release built-up stress
But remember: self-care is not a substitute for professional help. These tools are most effective when paired with the guidance of a qualified mental health provider.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. They are not signs of failure or weakness — they are signs that your body and mind are asking for care.
If you're a new mom who’s feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected, therapy can help you reconnect with yourself, your baby, and your life.
Looking for a maternal mental health therapist in California?
We specialize in supporting new parents through every phase of the perinatal journey — from infertility and loss to pregnancy, postpartum healing and beyond. Reach out today to book a consultation. Our team of skilled and experienced therapists are available to help, in person throughout Los Angeles - in Hermosa Beach and Beverly Hills — and online across California.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this content does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you are experiencing distress or mental health concerns, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, please call 911 or contact a 24/7 crisis line such as the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.