Postpartum Anxiety vs. Postpartum Depression: Similarities and Differences

By Noelle Rizzio, MSEd, LCPC  

Bringing a new baby home is often described as one of the happiest times in a person’s life — but for many new moms, it’s also one of the most stressful and emotional. Amid the joy, sleepless nights and major life changes, some parents experience intense, persistent anxiety that goes far beyond normal new-mom worry.

That’s where postpartum anxiety comes in — a condition talked about less than postpartum depression but just as real and impactful. Understanding the difference between the two helps caregivers, counselors and loved ones provide better support during this life-changing season.

How Postpartum Anxiety and Postpartum Depression Differ

Though postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression often overlap, the core emotions and thought patterns are distinct. While postpartum depression centers on low mood and disconnection, postpartum anxiety is marked by excessive worry and hypervigilance — a feeling of being “too connected” and constantly on guard. Massachusetts General Hospital’s Center for Women’s Mental Health explains that many parents with postpartum depression also experience anxiety symptoms, but anxiety can exist on its own, too. 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, postpartum anxiety is severe, ongoing worry that occurs after having a baby. These anxious thoughts can become all-consuming, often focused on the baby’s safety, health or the parent’s ability to care for them. Postpartum anxiety can begin immediately after birth or develop months later and affects roughly one in five new mothers. Postpartum depression is a mood disorder that can appear anytime within the first year after childbirth, though it most often begins within the first few weeks. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists defines it as intense sadness, hopelessness and despair that interferes with daily functioning and bonding with the baby. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in eight women experiences postpartum depression in the U.S.

Knowing the Distinction Can Help Support Parents in Need

Understanding the difference between postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression can help ensure new parents receive the right care. Here are a few things counselors should be aware of:

• Distinctive Treatments: The Cleveland Clinic explains that clients with depression may respond best to mood-focused therapy and medication, while clients with anxiety often benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.
• Better Screening: Many providers screen only for depression, which can miss symptoms of anxiety — leading parents to feel unheard or misdiagnosed.
• Empowered Support: Counselors and caregivers can normalize worry while still recognizing when it becomes unmanageable.

As counselors and mental health advocates, we can help new parents feel seen, supported and worthy even in their hardest moments. Here are some practical strategies:

1. Normalize the Experience: Reinforce that feeling anxious or overwhelmed is normal and that your clients don’t have to stay stuck in those feelings.
2. Screen for Both Mood and Anxiety: Ask about sadness and worry.
3. Encourage Connection: Suggest peer support and counseling to help reduce isolation and shame.
4. Focus on Self-Worth: Remind new parents that needing help doesn’t mean they’re failing — it means they’re human.
5. Offer Resources: Provide referrals to counselors, postpartum support groups or organizations such as Postpartum Support International.

Both postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression are treatable. If you or someone you know is feeling trapped in a cycle of fear, guilt or sadness after giving birth, know you are not alone. With early support, counseling and, in some cases, medication, recovery is possible. The Mayo Clinic notes most people experience full recovery with proper care — and the sooner treatment begins, the better the outcomes. 

Note: Opinions expressed and statements made in this blog do not necessarily represent the policies or opinions of ACA and its editors.