5 Unexpected Ways That Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Show Up
by Kellie Britch, TBBN Communications Officer, Postpartum Doula
The postpartum period brings so much change - physically, relationally, and emotionally. With all of the internal and external transitions, it’s no wonder that 15-20% of birthing people experience significant symptoms of postpartum depression and/or anxiety. But while symptoms from Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) can show up in obvious ways, they tend to creep in and slowly take root in the unexpected and even justifiable aspects of postpartum life.
Who Is Affected by Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders?
While birthing people report experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression and/or anxiety more frequently, partners are just as susceptible. Additionally, PMADs aren’t limited to the immediate postpartum period. In fact, you can experience symptoms at any point during pregnancy until up to 12 months postpartum.
What Are Perinatal Mood Disorders?
Postpartum depression is certainly talked about most often, but there are actually several forms that PMADs can take, including:
Perinatal Depression
Perinatal Anxiety
Perinatal OCD
Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Bipolar Mood Disorders
Postpartum Psychosis
5 Sneaky Signs of Postpartum Anxiety and Depression
Here are five unexpected ways that postpartum anxiety (PPA) and postpartum depression (PPD) can show up:
1. Trouble Sleeping
Postpartum anxiety can make it feel like you are always on edge. So even when you finally have an opportunity to catch up on rest, you just can’t seem to quiet your mind enough to take advantage of it. This kind of nervous energy is exhausting and the fact that it keeps you from resting can actually make symptoms worse.
2. Obsession With Baby’s Sleep
If you hadn’t noticed, sleep is a big concern in the postpartum period. While wanting your baby to get the rest you and them both need is normal, postpartum anxiety can morph it into an obsession. Unfortunately, the sleep training industry feeds this obsession by leading new parents to believe that they can control their baby’s sleep, or that if their baby isn’t sleeping, it’s because they did something wrong. Loosening your grip on the schedules and sleep charts can have a profound impact on your mental health.
3. Overconcern With Infant Feeding
Bodyfeeding is often more difficult than parents are prepared for, so it’s a perfect place for postpartum anxiety and depression to grow. Whether parents are panicked about oversupply, feeling isolated in this new role, or are experiencing guilt over not being able to meet their body feeding goals, these feelings are all fertile ground for postpartum depression and/or anxiety to grow.
I highly recommend connecting with a lactation counselor or consultant and finding a parent and/or body feeding-specific support group.
4. Inability to Trust Others
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders can make you feel alone and overstimulated, but worst of all, they can make you feel like you’re the only one who can care for your baby. In other words, even when help is offered, you feel like there is no point. The baby needs you because you’re the only one who can do it right. This can make you feel trapped. Suffocated. Alone.
Here’s the thing - you are the only one who knows all of the little intricacies of caring for your baby. You are with them the most and know them better than anyone in the world. But just because someone’s care is different, does not make it wrong. Take comfort in knowing that you are magic. No one will ever compare to you.
5. Unexplained Irritability and Rage
Overstimulation is real, especially when even your brain feels like it’s clamoring for your attention. Over time, this can evolve into postpartum rage. In other words, you may feel irritated with those around you, but when you stop to think about why you have a hard time coming up with a logical reason for your extreme emotions.
When you start to feel touched out and angry, taking a step away to do something (or nothing) by yourself can help you reset. Step outside, lay in a hammock, close your eyes, and take deep breaths - do whatever works for you.
If you feel like you or your partner are struggling in one of these areas, you may be the victim of a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. Don’t suffer alone. Find a therapist who specializes in treating PMADs and locate a support group in your area. You can also call or text the Postpartum Support International Helpline for support, information, and resources. If you’re local to Tampa Bay, please join our Witching Hour.
Kellie Britch is a volunteer board member for Tampa Bay Birth Network as our Communications Manager. She works as a birth doula, postpartum doula, and lactation counselor. Kellie is passionate about helping parents feel SEEN - Supported, Educated, Empowered, and Nurtured - as they settle into their new roles. She does this by providing clients with non-judgmental support, evidence-based resources, practical advice, and a listening ear.