 Most moms have heard a little something about postpartum depression. However, not many have heard the term postpartum anxiety. Would you say that is a true statement? Have you heard anyone share about postpartum anxiety? A Counselor’s Personal Experience of Postpartum Anxiety As a licensed counselor, of course I heard of postpartum depression. When I was pregnant I was prepared. I knew the symptoms, what to look for, and went into my pregnancy prepared. I thought! Well, after having my little one, I was excited, elated and…… ANXIOUS. I would ruminate about everything from my little one’s health to how many hours of sleep I would get. I knew something was not right. I knew that these ruminating thoughts were more than expected. So what did I do? What I would recommend to anyone experiencing the same symptoms - I found a counselor, I informed my OB/GYN and I leaned on my support person. And you know what… I got well! Here a few anxiety disorders that can occur during the postpartum period. I purposely only share a small bit about each, as I can imagine the WebMD searching that can be counterproductive to those experiencing anxiety. Don’t read this list and diagnose but rather read and become aware! General Anxiety Disorder You may experience excessive uncontrollable worry, and you may feel fatigued, irritable, restless, and have difficulty sleeping or concentrating. Panic Disorder You may experience the sudden onset of panic, tightness of chest, or feel as if you are having difficulty breathing. You may even have feelings that you are losing control. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder You may experience intrusive thoughts that disturb or inhibit you from your daily functions or ritualistic behaviors that you complete with the hope of reducing anxiety. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder You may feel distressed in relation to trauma or a perceived threat and when the thought about the event reoccurs it feels as if you are reliving the event, which causes avoidance, negative mood or even reactivity. Again, please do not diagnose yourself. If you feel as if you are having symptoms related to any disorders described please speak with a licensed mental health provider to receive consultation. To aid mothers to be and recent moms, we developed The Postpartum Mental Wellness Planner, a free online resource at www.postpartummentalwellness.com. In it you will walk away with a detailed personalized plan for your postpartum mental wellness. If you are experiencing anxiety or depression and you've recently had a little one or are currently pregnant you can speak with a mental health professional by scheduling an appointment with Maternal Counseling Services, PLLC, or email help@maternalcounselingservices.com.
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