Postpartum Anxiety

Moms are known to worry. Occasionally feeling stress, fear or anxiety is a part of life. But when you’ve got a new baby, those feelings can be stronger. In fact, anxiety can be overwhelming for some new moms.

Signs of Anxiety

Anxiety can reveal itself in a number of ways. A few signs you’re having anxiety include:

• Feeling nervous, restless or irritable
• Having trouble controlling worry
• Avoiding situations that cause anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Tense muscles, tight chest or heart palpitations
• Difficulty sleeping
• Fear or avoidance of going out with your baby
• Constant worry or constant urge to check on your baby

Common Anxiety Disorders for New Moms

8 to 10 percent of women have clinical levels of anxiety after giving birth. This means their anxiety and/or panic attacks interfere with their everyday activities. Types of anxiety disorders common in new moms include:

Generalized anxiety disorder, when worries are uncontrollable or interfere with normal life.

Obsessive compulsive disorder, in which a person has uncontrollable, persistent thoughts and repetitive behaviors.

Panic disorder, in which the person has repeated panic attacks.

Phobias, which can be an intense desire to avoid or a fear of a specific item or situation.

Post-traumatic stress disorder, which can be fear or feeling helpless after a traumatic event, such as a complicated birth.

Think you might have an anxiety disorder? This quiz could help you understand whether or not you might.

What to Do When You’re Feeling Anxious

Whether or not you have been diagnosed with anxiety, you may feel anxious from time to time. When you feel anxious, you can:

• Breathe slowly and deeply
• Stop and slowly count to 10
• Do relaxation techniques, such as meditation, massage or yoga

These practices can help you calm down.

Practice Self-Care

A few lifestyle techniques can help as well. Prevent future anxiety attacks with:

• Exercise
• Sleep
• Relaxation techniques
• Eating well-balanced meals
• Limiting alcohol and caffeine

When to Get Professional Help

It’s very important to talk to a doctor if:

• Your anxiety is preventing you from completing your usual tasks.
• You’re having panic attacks.
• You’re having trouble controlling your worries or anxious thoughts.
• You have tense muscles, tight chest or heart palpitations.
• You’re afraid to go out with your baby.
• You are constantly checking on your baby out of fear.

First, see your primary physician. Sometimes anxiety can be caused by a medical condition.

If a medical condition is ruled out, see a mental health professional. Treatment can help any type of anxiety you are experiencing.