If you’re in a season where things feel heavier than you expected and you’re not sure why, start here. Royale Dá explains postpartum anxiety in a way that just makes sense. I watched this talk and finally felt like someone else got it. She shares the experience so clearly, and it’s comforting to hear a voice that puts language to what so many of us go through quietly.
What Is Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety doesn’t always get talked about as much as postpartum depression, but it’s just as real. It can feel like a constant hum of fear, nervousness, or dread, particularly around keeping your baby safe. It often shows up in your body before you even have words for it.
Common Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety
You don’t have to check every box to be struggling. If even a few of these feel familiar, it’s worth paying attention to and perhaps talking to someone about it.
- Constant worry that something bad might happen
- Feeling tense or like you can’t fully relax
- Shortness of breath, tight chest, nausea
- Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, even when baby sleeps
- Obsessive thoughts, looping worries
- Avoiding places or situations because they feel too overwhelming
- Fear of leaving the house or being alone with the baby
- Panic attacks or sudden waves of fear
- Feeling out of control or like your brain won’t turn off
I Struggled With Postpartum Anxiety…
For me, it started with a tight chest every time I left the house. I’d feel sick to my stomach and constantly look for an excuse to escape, either take a walk or go to the bathroom just to breathe.
I had this looming sense that something was going to go wrong. Even something as silly as: what if my baby started crying uncontrollably in the middle of a restaurant? How would people react? Would I know what to do? She never actually did, but the fear of it happening made me feel incredibly anxious.
I knew that wasn’t normal for me. So I started doing some research, and honestly, every symptom of postpartum anxiety described what I was feeling. I called my therapist. We talked it through, and I finally felt like I wasn’t crazy. Even my gynecologist took the time to sit with me and really listen to everything I was going through. She recommended I try medication, just as a support until I felt more like myself again. It made a huge difference. I didn’t realize how heavy everything had been until it started to lift.
Now? My baby is eight months old. I leave the house with her on my own. I run errands. I even started volunteering at church again. I feel like I have some normalcy in my life again. It feels really good to say I’m on the other side of that fog.
Things That Can Help
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but here are some options that might help you start to feel like yourself again:
1. Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – This helped me untangle some of the thoughts that were feeding my anxiety.
- One-on-one counseling – Just having someone neutral to talk to made me feel heard.
- Support groups – Sometimes just knowing you’re not the only one feeling this way makes all the difference.
2. Medication
- Some moms find relief with medication, even short-term. Always talk to your provider about what’s safe and right for you and your baby.
3. Lifestyle Changes
- Getting sleep where you can – Even a nap helped me feel more in control.
- Whole foods and water – I noticed less anxiety when I was hydrated and eating better.
- Gentle movement – Even a short walk outside helped reset my body.
- Letting others help – You don’t have to do this alone. Say yes when people offer support.
It’s Important to Remember, You’re Not Alone!
Postpartum anxiety may not be talked about as often as postpartum depression; however, it is common. It’s also important to note, it doesn’t have to be your “new normal.” If you feel off, anxious, or overwhelmed, it’s okay to ask for help. You deserve to feel calm, confident, and supported as a mom. There’s no shame in needing a little more care during this season.
You’re not failing. You’re adjusting. And you’re doing better than you think!