Pregnancy and Birth (Peripartum/Postpartum Anxiety and Depression)

The transition to “parent” does not necessarily begin at the moment a child is born. It can start when pregnancy is confirmed or the day an embryo is implanted. The process of becoming a parent is highly individualized and unique. During this important transitional period, many mothers may experience emotional and psychological changes, not only after birth but also during pregnancy.

Anxiety may arise from natural fears about the baby, health, and the physical and emotional changes that come with parenthood. Pre- and/or postnatal depression can cause feelings of sadness, extreme fatigue, emptiness, and insecurity about parental abilities.

These changes are common and can be influenced by hormonal shifts, previous experiences with anxiety and depression, or feelings of mismatch with societal expectations for “perfect parenting.”

Therapy Session

Baby Blues After Birth:

Most mothers experience “baby blues” after giving birth, which typically involve mood swings, crying spells, anxiety, and sleep difficulties. Baby blues usually begin within 2-3 days after delivery and can last up to two weeks. These symptoms usually resolve on their own. However, prolonged mood changes may be a sign of postpartum depression, which requires attention.

Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety May Include:


  • • Worry without a clear reason regarding the baby/pregnancy
  • • Fear of being a “bad mother”
  • • Fear that something bad will happen
  • • Fear of losing control
  • • Feeling overwhelmed most of the time
  • • Feeling jumpy or easily startled
  • • Constantly being on guard for danger

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression May Include:


  • • Low mood or noticeable mood changes
  • • Frequent crying spells
  • • Strong irritability and anger
  • • Difficulty bonding with your baby
  • • Loss of appetite or excessive eating
  • • Inability to sleep or excessive sleeping
  • • Fatigue or loss of energy
  • • Withdrawal from family and friends
  • • Reduced interest and pleasure in activities
  • • Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
  • • Unnecessary self-blame when things go wrong
  • • Impaired thinking, concentration, or decision-making
  • • Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
  • • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

Symptoms of Postpartum Psychosis May Include:


  • • Feeling confused and disconnected from reality
  • • Paranoid, obsessive thoughts about the baby
  • • Hallucinations and delusions
  • • Reduced need for sleep or inability to sleep
  • • Excessive energy and hyperactivity
  • • Rapid mood swings
  • • Attempts to harm yourself or your baby

Ways That We
Treat Prenatal +
Postnatal Phases

Our psychologists specialized in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Systemic Family Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and more offer support during these phases as you explore your parenting journey.