Postpartum Depression & Anxiety

Bringing a baby into your life can be joyful and overwhelming. Many new parents experience emotional changes during the first weeks after childbirth. Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety are common medical conditions and can affect anyone - including partners. 

The team at Banner Health is here to support your mental health as you navigate early parenthood. 

Baby blues vs postpartum depression 

Baby blues are very common and usually begin a few days after birth. Feelings may include: 

• Mood swings 
• Irritability 
• Anxiety 
• Crying more easily 
• Trouble sleeping 

Baby blues typically improve within 10 to 14 days. 

When it may be postpartum depression 

Postpartum depression lasts longer and the feelings are stronger. Symptoms may include: 

• Feeling sad, hopeless or overwhelmed 
• Trouble bonding with your baby 
• Withdrawing from family or friends 
• Loss of interest in activities you enjoy 
• Changes in appetite or sleep 
• Feelings of guilt or being a bad parent 
• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby 

If symptoms last longer than two weeks or make daily life hard, contact your health care provider. 

Postpartum anxiety 

Postpartum anxiety can occur alone or along with depression. It can include: 

• Constant worrying or racing thoughts 
• Panic attacks 
• Feeling on edge or unable to relax 
• Trouble focusing 
• Difficulty sleeping even when baby sleeps 
• Fear something bad will happen to the baby 

Many parents with postpartum anxiety do not recognize it right away. Talking to your doctor can help you understand what you are experiencing. 

Postpartum psychosis (rare but serious) 

Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include: 

• Hallucinations or hearing voices 
• Extreme confusion or paranoia 
• Acting in ways that feel out of control 
• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby 

Call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency room if these symptoms appear. 

What causes postpartum depression and anxiety 

These conditions can be related to: 

• Sudden hormone changes after childbirth 
• Stress, sleep loss and recovery from delivery 
• Personal or family history of depression or anxiety 
• Complications during pregnancy or birth 
• Lack of support or major life changes 

Nothing you did caused this. These are medical conditions and treatments can help you feel better. 

Treatment and support options 

Your doctor will work with you to find the right plan for your needs which may include: 

• Therapy or counseling 
• Medication that is safe during breastfeeding when needed 
• Support groups to connect with other parents 
• Self-care strategies such as gentle activity, time outdoors and community support 

Banner Health offers mental health specialists who understand postpartum needs and can help guide you through treatment and recovery. 

When to get help 

Reach out to your doctor if: 

• Symptoms last more than two weeks 
• You are not feeling like yourself 
• Anxiety keeps you from caring for yourself or your baby 

Emergency help 

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby: 

• Call 911 
• Reach out to a loved one nearby 
• Go to the closest emergency department 

You deserve support and care right now. 

You are not alone 

Postpartum depression and anxiety are treatable. Many parents recover with the right support. Banner Health is here to help you feel safe, heard and cared for. 

Talk to your doctor. 

Learn more about Banner Behavioral Health support. 

Connect with postpartum resources.