When Worrying About Your New Baby Becomes Postpartum Anxiety
Entering parenthood is a whirlwind of emotions, from the unparalleled joy of welcoming a new life to the overwhelming challenges of caring for an infant.
Amidst this rollercoaster, many new parents find themselves grappling with a lesser-known foe: Postpartum Anxiety (PPA). Defined by persistent worry and fear, PPA can cast a shadow over the early months of parenthood.
In this blog, we'll discuss what postpartum anxiety is, how to recognize it, and how to navigate it so you can find healing and a renewed sense of new parenthood joy.
Understanding Postpartum Anxiety and Why It Occurs
While some level of concern is typical with the arrival of a new baby, postpartum anxiety is a pervasive, post-childbirth worry that persists throughout the day and night.
It often manifests as irrational fears about unlikely events, sometimes stemming from specific past incidents, while other times, the source of worry may be unclear and generalized.
Postpartum Anxiety can occur due to various contributing factors, such as:
Hormonal changes, particularly changes in estrogen and progesterone levels after childbirth, can influence mood regulation and trigger anxiety symptoms.
Lifestyle stressors such as sleep deprivation, financial worries, and adjusting to new responsibilities can also exacerbate anxiety in new parents.
Psychological factors like a history of anxiety disorders, unresolved trauma, or a lack of social support may increase the risk of developing PPA.
Identifying the Signs of Postpartum Anxiety
Common postpartum anxiety signs and symptoms may include:
Persistent worry or fear
Excessive concern for the baby's well-being
Racing thoughts
Difficulty sleeping even when the baby sleeps
Physical symptoms like dizziness or nausea
Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety
Panic attacks or intrusive thoughts about harm coming to yourself or your baby
By recognizing the potential triggers and signs of PPA, you can take proactive steps to mitigate their impact.
Navigating Postpartum Anxiety
Navigating through Postpartum Anxiety requires a multifaceted approach focused on self-care and seeking assistance. Prioritize relaxing and stress-reducing activities while leaning on people you trust, like friends, family (chosen or biological), and mental health professionals.
Managing PPA is a journey. Be patient and kind to yourself as you navigate a challenging time.
Seeking Professional Help: Treatment Options
Professional treatment for postpartum anxiety can include different therapies that have proven effective in managing symptoms.
Postpartum Counselling
Postpartum counselling for anxiety can help you recognize triggers and understand the underlying reasons behind your anxieties. It can also alleviate shame and guilt while providing practical coping mechanisms to foster a sense of relaxation and ease.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps to pinpoint emotions and alter thought patterns by replacing negative thoughts and behaviours with healthier thinking patterns and habits. Typically conducted over several individual sessions, CBT utilizes a question-and-answer format to help manage stress and anxiety.
Medication
Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for postpartum anxiety, which increases the level of serotonin in the brain. Other medications, like tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and norepinephrine and dopamine re-uptake inhibitors (NDRIs), may also be used but can produce more side effects. Discuss the risks and benefits of medication with your healthcare provider if you're breastfeeding.
Self-Care
Engage in daily exercise or yoga for relaxation, maintain a nutritious diet, and try to prioritize sleep (easier said than done when you're a new parent, but that's where a support network can help).
Building a Support Network
Alongside seeking professional help, building a support network when navigating postpartum anxiety can help you ease the strain of challenging symptoms.
Reach out to people you trust for emotional support and practical assistance. You can also join a support group and surround yourself with people who understand what you're going through because they live a similar reality.
Communicate with your partner about your needs and concerns, fostering understanding and sharing caregiving responsibilities.
Delegate tasks when feeling overwhelmed by parenting demands. It's okay to ask for help from your partner, friends, family, or anyone within your trusted network.
Remember, you're not alone in this journey; having a solid support system can make all the difference in overcoming PPA.
Take the First Step to Healing Postpartum Anxiety
To all parents facing postpartum anxiety, know that seeking help is a brave step. Embrace vulnerability, and you can find a path to resilience and healing.
Contact Midtown Toronto Therapy today to learn how specialized postpartum counselling can support your journey toward improved well-being and a renewed sense of parenthood joy.
