Feeling Sad, Anxious, or Overwhelmed After Having a Baby? You're Not Alone.
Bringing a new baby into the world is life-changing — and so many emotions can come with it. Joy, exhaustion, wonder, overwhelm.
If you're finding yourself feeling sad, anxious, or simply not like yourself after giving birth, you are not alone and you are not broken.
Postpartum emotions are complex, and there is no “right” way to feel after your baby arrives.
What’s Normal After Baby?
Most new moms experience an emotional rollercoaster during the first few weeks after delivery. The "baby blues" are incredibly common, affecting up to 80% of women.
You might notice:
Mood swings
Crying spells
Feeling overwhelmed
Trouble sleeping, even when you're exhausted
Anxiety about caring for your baby
These feelings typically begin within a few days of birth and fade within two weeks.
When It Might Be Something More
If your emotions feel heavy, intense, or persistent beyond the first two weeks, it could be more than the baby blues.
Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety are very real — and very treatable — conditions.
Signs to look out for:
Persistent sadness or emptiness
Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy
Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or shame
Difficulty bonding with your baby
Irritability, anger, or resentment
Changes in appetite or sleep beyond typical newborn exhaustion
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby (even if fleeting)
If you recognize yourself in any of these experiences, you deserve support — and healing is possible.
You Didn’t Do Anything Wrong
Postpartum mental health challenges are not a reflection of your strength, love, or capability as a mother.
They are the result of real biological, hormonal, emotional, and environmental shifts happening in your life.
You are not failing. Your feelings are valid. And you are not alone.
What You Can Do Today
If you’re struggling, here are a few gentle steps you can take:
Talk to someone you trust. Sharing how you're feeling can be powerful.
Reach out to a professional. Therapy, psychiatry, or integrative care can help you find a path forward.
Prioritize small acts of care. A nourishing meal, a walk in the sunlight, a few minutes of deep breathing — it all counts.
Remember you deserve support. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
You Deserve to Feel Like Yourself Again
Motherhood transforms you — but it shouldn’t erase you.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or lost, know that support is available.
You are worthy of care, healing, and joy during this season of life.
