Postpartum anxiety is common and can be a scary experience for a new mother. The symptoms are different from postpartum depression.
Postpartum anxiety occurs when a new mother feels extreme concern/worry regularly. The anxiety might be irrational or become intrusive where it begins to take over every thought. They might even feel overwhelmed with everyday life.
Whether you’re a friend or family member of someone experiencing this type of anxiety, there are things you can do to help. That new mother might try to withdraw from the people and things they love, and that isn’t always the best for healing.
Let them know they’re not alone, and try some of the following suggestions to support them.
Offer Specific Types of Help
It’s easy to let someone know you’re there for them. You might tell the person you love to let you know if there’s anything they need.
But, for a mother dealing with postpartum anxiety, that kind of offer will likely only lead to more overwhelming thoughts.
Instead, offer specific help. Tackle specific tasks that you know will make a difference. That might include going grocery shopping for them, doing their laundry, or even watching their little one for a few hours so they can take a nap.
These intentional actions will take a lot of weight off that new mother’s shoulder and allow them to breathe, even if it’s only for a short time. Self-care is incredibly important for any new mother. For one who is dealing with anxious thoughts and fear, it’s even more essential. By taking some of the tasks away from her and making her life even a little bit easier, she’ll have time for herself, and can do something positive for her mental health.
Be a Listening Ear
Anxiety can be very lonely. It’s not uncommon for people struggling with it to isolate. Unfortunately, when you’re alone with your anxious thoughts, they often become worse.
You might not be able to force your way into a new mother’s life, especially if you’re a friend or distant family member. But, you can let them know (more than once) that you are there to support them and listen. If they do decide that they want to talk, commit to that promise.
When you do, make sure you’re actively listening, not just “hearing” what they have to say. Ask questions, let them know you understand, and make small, actionable suggestions that might help them.
Encourage Them to Get Help
Speaking of actionable suggestions, one of the best things you can do for a loved one dealing with postpartum anxiety is to encourage them to see a professional. They should start with their medical doctor to rule out any health issues that could be contributing to their anxious thoughts.
If there are no underlying health problems, help them find the support they need elsewhere. That might include joining an online or in-person group of other women dealing with postpartum anxiety. Sometimes, knowing they aren’t alone in their feelings and hearing from other women who have gone through it can make a big difference.
Finally, encourage them to seek mental health support. Therapy is often the best way to overcome postpartum anxiety. A therapist can help them uncover the “root cause” of their anxiety and come up with effective ways to manage their symptoms as they work through it. You can Contact Us for more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation.
If someone you care about is struggling with postpartum anxiety, do what you can to support them, and encourage them to get the help they deserve. This type of anxiety won’t last forever, but your loved one doesn’t have to continue to deal with fear and worry every day.