The Unexpected Ways Postpartum Depression & Postpartum Anxiety Show Up for Women & Men
Welcoming a new baby is a joyful occasion filled with milestones, but it also brings with it the emotional complexities of postpartum life. Postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum anxiety (PPA) are conditions that can affect new parents in unexpected ways, frequently going unnoticed. They are often thought of as issues that only affect mothers and other birthing persons after childbirth, but they can impact new fathers and other non-birthing partners as well. Understanding these manifestations is essential for timely intervention and support.
First, let’s talk about how common PPD and PPA are. Approximately 10-20% of new mothers experience PPD (American Psychological Association, 2020). New fathers experience PPD, with prevalence rates reported between 5-10% (Paul, 2016).
Around 10-15% of new mothers are affected by PPA (Leach et al., 2016). While unsurprisingly less studied, some estimates indicate that approximately 5-10% of new fathers may experience PPA, though this can be underreported (Leach et al., 2016)
Lesser Known Signs of Postpartum Depression
While many are aware of the typical symptoms of postpartum depression, such as sadness and withdrawing, there are several less obvious signs that can surface:
Irritability and Anger: Instead of feelings of deep sadness, many experience irritability or frustration. This can lead to conflict in relationships and might be misinterpreted as a personality change (O'Hara & Swain, 1996).
Physical Symptoms: PPD can manifest through unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach problems, or chronic pain. These physical issues often have no medical explanation but are linked to emotional distress (Higgins et al., 2019).
Difficulty Bonding: New mothers may struggle to connect emotionally with their newborn, leading to feelings of guilt. This disconnect can create additional stress and contribute to the cycle of depression (American Psychological Association, 2020).
Lesser Known Signs of Postpartum Anxiety
Postpartum anxiety can also manifest in unexpected ways:
Constant Worrying: New parents may find themselves excessively worrying about their baby’s sleep schedule or their own parenting abilities. This level of anxiety can interfere with daily life and lead to feelings of inadequacy.
Perfectionism: Many new mothers strive for an unrealistic standard of perfection, leading to increased stress and anxiety. This mindset can cause them to feel overwhelmed by everyday parenting tasks.
Obsessive Cleaning: Some new parents may engage in excessive cleaning as a way to cope with their anxiety or to regain a sense of control over their environment. This compulsive behavior can be a manifestation of underlying emotional distress. (Gavin et al., 2005)
Recognizing the Need for Help
Understanding the unexpected ways that postpartum depression and anxiety can manifest is crucial for early detection and intervention. And it’s also very important to recognize that they can be present for people of all genders, birthing and non-birthing partners alike. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional help. Therapy can provide a supportive environment to process feelings, develop effective coping strategies and determine if medication options are worth exploring.
In conclusion, both postpartum depression and anxiety can show up in various forms, impacting new parents in ways they might not anticipate. By recognizing these signs and seeking help, families can navigate the challenges of parenthood more effectively, ultimately fostering a healthier environment for everyone.
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References
American Psychological Association. (2020). Postpartum depression. Retrieved from APA
Gavin, N. I., Gaynes, B. N., Lohr, K. N., Meltzer-Brody, S., Gartlehner, G., & Swinson, T. (2005). Perinatal depression: A systematic review of prevalence and incidence. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 106(5 Pt 1), 1071-1083. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.AOG.0000183597.31630.db
Higgins, A., et al. (2019). The role of physical symptoms in postpartum depression and anxiety: A systematic review. Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, 40(4), 290-297.
Leach, L. S., et al. (2016). Perinatal anxiety: A review of prevalence and correlates. BMC Psychiatry, 16(1), 11.
O'Hara, M. W., & Swain, A. M. (1996). Rates and risk of postpartum depression—a meta-analysis. International Review of Psychiatry, 8(1), 37-54.
Paul, L. (2016). The role of fathers in postpartum depression. Journal of Family Psychology, 30(2), 178-184.