Normal Nervousness or Postpartum Anxiety? Understanding the Differences

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Postpartum anxiety is estimated to affect around 10% to 20% of women in the postpartum period. However, it’s important to note that the actual numbers may be even higher due to the underreporting and difficulty in distinguishing between normal nervousness and postpartum anxiety. 

First, let’s talk about normal nervousness. It is completely normal to feel a bit anxious or nervous after becoming a new mom. With all the changes happening in your life, it is understandable to have worries and uncertainties. Some common thoughts and concerns new mothers have are whether you’re doing everything right, whether your baby is eating enough, or if they are sleeping well. Feeling emotional and overwhelmed during the fourth trimester is not immediately a cause for concern or an indication of something more serious. 

On the other hand, postpartum anxiety is a more intense and persistent form of anxiety that goes beyond the usual worries of new motherhood. Here a few behaviors that can help illustrate the difference: 

  • Worries about your baby’s health and safety: 

    • Normal nervousness: Feeling concerned about your baby’s well-being and taking precautions.

    • Postpartum anxiety: Constantly fearing that something terrible will happen to your baby, even with no real evidence to support it. This fear can become overwhelming and intrusive, making it difficult to focus on anything else.  

  • Separation anxiety:

    • Normal nervousness: Feeling a bit uneasy about leaving your baby with a trusted caregiver for the first time. 

    • Postpartum anxiety: Experiencing extreme fear or distress at the thought of leaving your baby, even with someone you trust. This fear may lead to avoiding time away from your baby altogether. 

  • Sleep difficulties:

    • Normal nervousness: Finding it challenging to fall asleep or experiencing occasional sleep disturbances due to the adjustments of caring for a newborn. 

    • Postpartum anxiety: Having significant difficulty sleeping, even when your baby is sleeping peacefully. Your mind races with worries, making it nearly impossible to rest. 

If you recognize any of these behaviors in yourself or in a loved one, it is crucial to reach out for support. With the right support and strategies in place, it is possible to manage and overcome the challenges associated with postpartum anxiety. Reach out to healthcare professionals, explore support groups, make lifestyle adjustments, and prioritize self-care. By taking these steps, you can navigate through this period and rediscover the joy in motherhood.