5 Signs It's Time to Reach Out for Therapy Postpartum

Motherhood is a journey filled with profound changes—emotionally, physically, and mentally. Whether you are becoming a mother for the first time or welcoming another child, this transition can be both joyful and overwhelming. Amidst sleepless nights, fluctuating hormones, and new responsibilities, it's common to feel uncertain or even lost. While some emotional shifts are expected, others may indicate the need for additional support. Understanding when to seek therapy can help you navigate this transformational period with confidence and care.

Postpartum Mental Health: You Are Not Alone

Postpartum depression is exceptionally common. Studies show that 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men experience depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy. These numbers are even higher for individuals with high stress levels or a history of trauma.

The good news? Postpartum depression and anxiety are highly treatable. Therapy can provide the support and tools you need to feel like yourself again and be the parent you want to be. Therapy can help you develop your identity as a parent, learn concrete skills to manage symptoms, and process difficult feelings that may arise during this life stage.

It can be easy to chalk up emotional changes and irritability to the bone-deep exhaustion you feel with a new baby. These symptoms can be tricky to pinpoint in the midst of sleep deprivation, ongoing hormonal shifts and increased appetite if you are breastfeeding. However, it never hurts to ask your Ob/Gyn or even your child’s pediatrician if what you’re experiencing is normal.

Seeking help is not a sign of failure. As the saying goes, "It takes a village," and this is especially true when it comes to navigating and normalizing the challenges of parenthood.

If you're unsure whether therapy might be helpful, here are five signs that it may be time to reach out for support.

1. Persistent Sadness or Anxiety

Feeling down when you're tired or adjusting to life with a new baby is normal. However, if you're experiencing these symptoms most days and cannot feel joy or enjoy the things you used to love, it might be a sign of postpartum depression.

Anxiety is also common for new parents. Babies are great at keeping us on our toes and changing routines just as we get them down. But if you're experiencing panic attacks, are unable to sleep even when the baby is sleeping, or are constantly worrying, it may be time to seek help.

2. Difficulty Bonding with Your Baby

Many people expect a magical moment of connection when meeting their baby for the first time, but that's not everyone's experience—and it doesn't mean you've done anything wrong.

If you feel little to no connection, feel detached or numb toward your child, or are simply going through the motions of caring for them, postpartum depression or anxiety may be affecting your ability to bond. Therapy can help you work through these feelings.

3. Changes in Sleep or Appetite 

Changes in your habits that aren't related to your baby's schedule can signal a deeper issue.

• Sleep: Sleeping excessively or being unable to sleep even when the baby is sleeping may point to postpartum depression or anxiety.

• Appetite: Significant changes in appetite—whether you're not eating even when food is available or eating far more than usual—are also signs it's time to seek support.

4.  Intrusive Thoughts

Experiencing intrusive thoughts can be distressing and scary, especially when they’re related to your or your baby’s safety. If you're experiencing obsessive or distressing thoughts without any desire or intent to act on them, they are intrusive thoughts that can be managed with therapy.

However, if you have thoughts with the intent to harm yourself or your baby, this is a psychiatric emergency, and you should call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

5. Overwhelming Guilt or Loss of Identity

If you're feeling unexplained guilt or no longer recognize yourself to the point of distress, this may be a sign of postpartum depression.

Motherhood naturally shifts your identity, but feeling completely lost and hopeless is a sign that additional support is needed. Therapy can help you navigate this transition and reconnect with yourself.

Where to Seek Help for Postpartum Mental Health in Walnut Creek

In the early postpartum days, your OB/GYN, midwife, or pediatrician can be a great starting point. These providers can conduct screenings to determine whether you're experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety. They may prescribe medication or refer you to a therapist.

Therapy is another excellent option. Working with a therapist trained in perinatal mental health can help you develop coping skills, process difficult emotions, and find your footing on this incredible journey.

Therapy Services in Walnut Creek for Perinatal Mental Health

If you're looking for compassionate, expert support in Walnut Creek, I specialize in perinatal mental health and trauma therapy. I offer a warm, solution-focused approach tailored to meet your unique needs as you navigate the postpartum period.

Seeking therapy is not a sign of failure—it's an act of strength. You don't have to walk this journey alone.

If you are experiencing an emergency or a mental health crisis, help is available. You can contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for immediate support from trained crisis counselors, available 24/7.

In life-threatening situations, do not hesitate to call 911.

For postpartum-specific resources, Postpartum Support International (PSI) offers free resources, including helplines and virtual support groups, to assist new parents in distress. Visit their website at postpartum.net or call 1-800-944-4773 to connect with compassionate support.