You Are Not Alone: An Evidence-Based Guide to Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

🌼 The Truth About New Motherhood

Welcoming a baby can be beautiful—and overwhelming.

For many new parents, especially mothers, the postpartum season includes more than just joy and snuggles. It can also bring unexpected feelings of sadness, anxiety, and disconnection.

As postpartum nurses and lactation consultants, we want you to know: You are not alone, and with the right support, healing is possible.

What Are Postpartum Depression & Anxiety?

🧠 Postpartum Depression (PPD)

PPD is more than the “baby blues.” It’s a serious but treatable mood disorder that affects about 1 in 8 mothers after birth. It may begin within the first few weeks—or months—after delivery.

Common symptoms of PPD include:

• Persistent sadness or mood swings
• Loss of interest in daily activities
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness
• Trouble bonding with your baby
• Appetite or sleep changes
• Thoughts of self-harm or harming your baby

PPD is not a personal failure. It’s a medical condition—and you deserve support.

😟 Postpartum Anxiety (PPA)

While less discussed, PPA affects an estimated 1 in 5 mothers. It may happen alongside PPD or by itself.

Common symptoms of PPA include:

• Constant or racing worries, especially about your baby
• Panic attacks or physical symptoms like heart palpitations
• Sleep disruption (even when the baby sleeps)
• Feeling overwhelmed, restless, or “on edge”

What Causes These Conditions?

There’s no single reason why postpartum depression or anxiety happens. Contributing factors may include:

• Hormonal shifts after birth
• Sleep deprivation
• Past trauma or mental health history
• Lack of emotional or social support
• Stressful birth experiences or feeding difficulties

💬 Breastfeeding and Mental Health
When breastfeeding doesn’t go as planned, it can be emotionally taxing. Research shows that feeding challenges—especially when they conflict with your goals—can increase your risk of postpartum mood issues.

We’re here to support your feeding journey—without pressure or judgment. Whether you choose to breastfeed, formula feed, or combo feed, your well-being comes first.

Evidence-Based Treatment Works

Postpartum mental health conditions are highly treatable. The earlier we address symptoms, the better the outcomes.

Effective treatment options include:

✅ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
✅ Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
✅ Medication (including breastfeeding-safe options)
✅ Peer & support groups

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends regular screening for postpartum depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy.

When to Reach Out

If you feel like something isn’t right, it probably isn’t—and that’s OK. You don’t have to “wait and see.” You don’t have to be in crisis to ask for help.

Let’s talk if you’re:

• Feeling persistently sad, anxious, or hopeless
• Struggling to sleep, eat, or bond with your baby
• Experiencing intrusive thoughts or fear
• Just needing someone to listen without judgment

How We Can Support You 💗

As part of your postpartum care team, we offer:

• Mental wellness screening and check-ins
• Breastfeeding and infant feeding support
• Referrals to trusted mental health providers
• A safe, compassionate space to talk about how you’re really doing

You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’re here to walk beside you—step by step, with care and compassion.

You Are Not Alone

There’s no such thing as a perfect parent—only real, resilient ones. Asking for help isn’t weakness. It’s one of the bravest things you can do for yourself and your baby.

📞 Ready to talk? Let’s connect.
Call or Text: (928)580-6510

Stressed Mother📚 References

1. CDC: Depression Among Women
2. Fairbrother et al. (2016). Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
3. Wenzel, A. (2011). Anxiety in Childbearing Women
4. O’Hara & McCabe (2013). Annual Review of Clinical Psychology
5. Slomian et al. (2019). Women’s Health
6. Borra et al. (2015). Maternal and Child Health Journal
7. Sockol (2015). Journal of Affective Disorders
8. Grote et al. (2009). Archives of General Psychiatry
9. Payne & Meltzer-Brody (2009). American Journal of Psychiatry
10. Dennis (2005). International Journal of Nursing Studies
11. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 757 (2018). Obstetrics & Gynecology