Postpartum Isn’t Just the Baby Blues: Signs You Might Need More Support
When we think about the postpartum experience, many of us picture a brief stretch of emotional ups and downs — a few days of tearfulness, hormone shifts, and sleep deprivation. That’s often referred to as the “baby blues,” and it’s incredibly common.
But what happens when the sadness lingers?
When the anxiety ramps up?
When you feel like you're losing yourself, not just adjusting?
If you’re past those early weeks and still feeling overwhelmed, numb, or just off, you might be dealing with something deeper — and you’re not alone.
Postpartum Looks Different for Everyone
Postpartum depression and anxiety don’t follow a script. They don’t always show up in tears or sadness. Sometimes they look like:
Irritability or rage over small things
Intrusive thoughts that feel scary or shameful
Guilt over not feeling more grateful or bonded
Perfectionism and pressure to "do it all right"
Overwhelm so big you feel paralyzed
You might still be functioning — feeding the baby, checking the boxes — but inside, you're unraveling. And the hardest part? You might think this is just what motherhood is supposed to feel like.
It’s Not Just You. It’s Not Just Hormones.
Yes, your hormones have shifted. Your sleep is wrecked. Your life has changed. But that doesn’t mean you should have to suffer through it in silence.
Postpartum anxiety and depression are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of.
And while everyone’s journey is different, here are a few signs it’s time to reach out:
You feel persistently sad, numb, or detached
You experience panic, dread, or constant worry
You’re overwhelmed to the point that even small tasks feel impossible
You feel disconnected from your baby, partner, or self
You’re having thoughts that scare you, and you don’t know what to do with them
Therapy Can Be a Lifeline
You don’t have to have a diagnosis or be in crisis to benefit from therapy. You just have to be human — and hurting — and ready for something to feel different.
In our work together, we’ll create a space that’s not about judgment or pressure. It’s a space for you. To grieve, to process, to reconnect, and to find your footing again — in your own way, and on your own terms.
You’re Not Alone — and You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
If any of this feels familiar, please know that what you're feeling is valid — and it doesn’t make you a bad mom. It makes you a real one.
I offer therapy for postpartum anxiety and depression in Nashville, TN, and via telehealth throughout Tennessee. Whether you're 6 weeks postpartum or 6 years into motherhood, you deserve support.
Schedule your free 15-minute consultation here.
You don’t have to keep pretending you’re okay.
