What Are the Signs of Postpartum Depression or Anxiety?

Let’s start with a reality check: having a baby is hard. The sleepless nights, endless feeding sessions, and a body that doesn’t feel like your own anymore—it’s a lot. Add in the emotional rollercoaster, and it’s no wonder so many new moms feel like they’re barely holding it together. But how do you know if what you’re feeling is more than just the “baby blues”? When does normal exhaustion and overwhelm tip over into postpartum depression (PPD) or postpartum anxiety (PPA)?

As a mom who’s been there—and as someone who works with new moms—I’m here to help you understand what these things look like, how they might show up in your life, and what you can do to start feeling like yourself again (yep, it’s possible!)

What’s Normal vs. What’s Not?

First, let’s clear something up: feeling emotional after having a baby is completely normal. Your hormones are doing a wild dance, you’re running on fumes, and you’re adjusting to a massive life change. For many moms, this translates into what’s often called the “baby blues”—a period of weepiness, mood swings, and general overwhelm that typically peaks around day 3-5 postpartum and eases up within two weeks.

But if those feelings don’t go away, or if they start to interfere with your ability to function, it’s worth paying attention. Postpartum depression and anxiety can show up in subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways, and recognizing the signs is the first step to getting help.

Signs of Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression isn’t just feeling sad. It’s a complex condition that can affect your emotions, thoughts, and even your body. Here are some of the most common signs:

1. Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness

You might feel like there’s a dark cloud hanging over you, even when things are objectively “fine.” Maybe you’re crying a lot, or maybe you feel numb—like you can’t feel much of anything.

2. Lack of Interest or Joy

Things that used to make you happy—like cuddling your baby, spending time with your partner, or even just watching your favorite show—might feel flat or meaningless. You’re going through the motions, but the joy just isn’t there.

3. Difficulty Bonding With Your Baby

You love your baby, but you might not feel that overwhelming connection everyone talks about. Instead, you might feel detached, resentful, or even scared of being left alone with them.

4. Exhaustion Beyond the Norm

New moms are tired—that’s a given. But postpartum depression can bring on a level of exhaustion that feels bone-deep and unshakeable, even if you’re getting some sleep.

5. Changes in Appetite or Sleep

You might find yourself eating way more than usual (hello, emotional eating) or not eating much at all. Similarly, you might have trouble sleeping—even when the baby is finally down.

6. Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt

Thoughts like, “I’m a terrible mom” or “My baby would be better off without me” can creep in, leaving you feeling overwhelmed by guilt and shame.

7. Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicide

This is a big red flag. If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, it’s time to reach out for help immediately. These thoughts don’t make you a bad mom—they’re a sign that you need support. For urgent support, head to your local emergency room. You can also reach out to the 988 Lifeline or contact the National Maternal Mental Health hotline (call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA).

Signs of Postpartum Anxiety

Postpartum anxiety historically has been less talked about than postpartum depression, but it’s just as real and just as challenging. While PPD often brings feelings of sadness or hopelessness, PPA tends to center around worry and fear. Here’s what it might look like:

1. Excessive Worry

You might find yourself spiraling into “what if” scenarios: What if the baby stops breathing while I’m asleep? What if I’m not feeding them enough? What if something happens to me and no one can take care of the baby? These worries can feel constant and overwhelming.

2. Physical Symptoms

Anxiety doesn’t just live in your head—it can show up in your body too. You might notice a racing heart, shortness of breath, muscle tension, or even stomach issues.

3. Difficulty Relaxing

Even when everything is fine, you might find it impossible to let your guard down. Your brain is always on high alert, scanning for potential dangers.

4. Avoidance Behaviors

You might avoid certain activities or situations because they feel too risky. For example, you might stop leaving the house because you’re afraid something bad will happen while you’re out.

5. Intrusive Thoughts

These are unwanted, distressing thoughts that pop into your head—like imagining your baby getting hurt or picturing yourself dropping them. Intrusive thoughts can be terrifying, but they’re a common symptom of postpartum anxiety and don’t mean you’ll act on them. If you’re struggling with intrusive thinking, you can learn more about how to manage these thoughts here.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing any of the signs above—especially if they’re interfering with your daily life or your ability to care for yourself or your baby—it’s time to reach out. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• You deserve support. Struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety doesn’t make you weak, and it doesn’t make you a bad mom. It makes you human.

• The earlier, the better. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can start feeling better and start enjoying motherhood.

• Therapy works. Talking to a professional who gets it can make a world of difference.

What You Can Do Right Now

If you’re reading this and thinking, That sounds like me, here are some steps you can take today:

1. Tell Someone You Trust

Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a family member, let someone know what you’re going through. You don’t have to do this alone.

2. Call Your Doctor

Your OB-GYN or primary care provider can be a good place to start. They can screen you for postpartum depression or anxiety and help you find resources (you’ll also find that your child’s pediatrician will be screening you at visits, too!) You can also do some self-screening here for concerns about anxiety and here for concerns about depression.

3. Reach Out to a Therapist

Postpartum therapy can provide a safe space to process your feelings, learn coping strategies, and start feeling like yourself again. Many therapists (including us at Hive Wellness Collective!) specialize in postpartum mental health and understand exactly what you’re going through.

4. Take Small Steps

When you’re in the thick of it, even tiny actions can feel huge. Start with something small, like drinking a glass of water, taking a short walk, or writing down one thing you’re grateful for.

How Hive Wellness Collective Can Help

At Hive Wellness Collective, we understand the unique challenges of postpartum depression and anxiety because we’ve walked this road with many mothers. Our goal is to provide actionable tools, genuine understanding, and a space where you feel truly supported in finding your way back to yourself.

• Therapy for New Moms: We provide a safe space to unpack your feelings, process your experience, and develop practical tools for managing symptoms.

• Parenting Support: Struggling with the mental load of parenting? We can help you navigate this new chapter with more ease and confidence.

• Flexible Options: Whether you prefer in-person sessions or virtual therapy, we’ll meet you where you’re at.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward feeling better, reach out today. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here for you, mama.