5 Overlooked Signs of Postpartum Anxiety (It’s Not Just Worrying Too Much)
Becoming a new mom comes with a whirlwind of emotions- joy, exhaustion, love, and many times, anxiety. While many people recognize postpartum anxiety as excessive worrying, it often shows up in unexpected ways. Identifying these overlooked signs can help moms seek support sooner and feel less alone in their experiences.
Here are five signs of postpartum anxiety that often go unnoticed:
1. Physical Symptoms That Mimic Other Conditions
Postpartum anxiety isn't just in your head, it often manifests physically.
You might experience a racing heart, dizziness, nausea, muscle tension, or shortness of breath. These symptoms can be mistaken for other health issues, leading moms to think there's something physically wrong when, in fact, anxiety is the root cause.
2. Difficulty Sleeping, Even When the Baby Sleeps
The classic advice, "Sleep when the baby sleeps," can feel impossible for moms with postpartum anxiety. Even when their baby is peacefully resting, anxious thoughts race through their minds, making it hard to relax or fall asleep.
This isn't just typical new-parent sleep deprivation; it's an inability to rest due to heightened anxiety.
Many moms I work with that are experiencing Postpartum Anxiety, report that while they feel tired, they have difficulties sleeping due to worries about their baby’s well-being. A common worry will including frequently checking the baby (or baby monitor) to make sure baby is okay and breathing while sleeping.
Unfortunately, this lack of sleep can exacerbate Postpartum Anxiety.
3. Irritability and Anger
While sadness is often associated with Postpartum Depression, Postpartum Anxiety can show up as irritability or sudden bursts of anger.
Feeling constantly on edge or snapping at loved ones over minor things can be a sign that anxiety is overwhelming your nervous system. When we are feeling anxious, our nervous system goes into “Fight or Flight.” The worrying thoughts are the “Flight” side, while feelings of anger, frustration and irritability are the “Fight” side.
4. Intrusive Thoughts
Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, distressing ideas or images that pop into your mind.
They might involve fears of accidental harm coming to your baby or yourself. These thoughts can be frightening and lead to feelings of shame, but having them doesn't mean you'll act on them.
They are a common though deeply unsettling, symptom of postpartum anxiety. However, due the the distressing nature of intrustive thoughts, they can often get in the way of our daily functioning.
5. Overwhelming Need for Control
New motherhood comes with unpredictability, and moms with postpartum anxiety might respond by trying to control everything.
This could mean rigid routines, excessive researching, or feeling extreme distress when plans change.
The constant need to micromanage can be a coping mechanism for underlying anxiety.
You’re Not Alone
If you recognize yourself in these signs, know that postpartum anxiety is common and treatable. Reaching out for support, whether through therapy, support groups, or talking to your healthcare provider, can make a significant difference.
You deserve care, understanding, and relief.
Motherhood is challenging enough without the added weight of unaddressed anxiety.
Disclaimer: This is not a replacement for a therapeutic relationship or mental health services. This is for educational purposes only and should be in used only in conjunction in working with a licensed mental health professional. If you are in California and looking for a professional therapist feel free to use the contact me to request an appointment or search Psychology Today for local therapists in your area.
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