Postpartum Anxiety: More Than the “Baby Blues”

Post partum anxiety is common. Counseling can help.

Bringing a new baby home is often described as joyful and exciting—but for many new parents, it can also be filled with worry, racing thoughts, and sleepless nights that go beyond normal adjustment. While most people have heard of postpartum depression, fewer know about postpartum anxiety. Yet it affects thousands of new mothers (and fathers) every year.

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What is Postpartum Anxiety?

Postpartum anxiety is more than the occasional “Am I doing this right?” thought. It’s an ongoing, overwhelming worry that can leave parents feeling on edge, restless, and constantly alert for something to go wrong.

Common signs include:

• Racing thoughts about your baby’s safety

• Feeling unable to relax, even when the baby is sleeping

• Irritability or restlessness

• Trouble sleeping or eating

• Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, nausea, or tension

• Checking repeatedly (like watching your baby breathe or re-checking locks)

• Avoiding activities out of fear something bad will happen

Unlike postpartum depression, which often shows up as sadness or hopelessness, postpartum anxiety feels like constant fear and worry. Some parents experience both.

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Why Postpartum Anxiety Happens

The postpartum period brings major changes—hormonal shifts, lack of sleep, new responsibilities, and sometimes a history of past anxiety or trauma. Military families and parents without strong support systems, which are common in Colorado Springs, may feel the weight even more.

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How Therapy Helps with Postpartum Anxiety

The good news is that postpartum anxiety is treatable. With therapy, parents can learn tools to calm the nervous system, manage intrusive thoughts, and regain confidence.

In our Colorado Springs counseling practice, we support new parents through:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Breaking cycles of worry and catastrophic thinking.

• IFS therapy: Getting to know and befriend our anxious parts

• Mindfulness & Relaxation Techniques: Calming the body’s “always on” state.

• Supportive Counseling: Creating space to share fears without judgment.

• Partner & Family Involvement or Therapy: Helping loved ones understand how to provide support.

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Life Beyond Constant Worry

You deserve to enjoy your baby without being weighed down by fear. With the right support, postpartum anxiety can ease, and life can feel manageable again. Therapy helps you feel more grounded, confident, and present with your child.

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Postpartum Anxiety Therapy in Colorado Springs

If you’re a new parent feeling constantly worried or unable to relax, you’re not alone—and help is available.

📍 We provide postpartum anxiety therapy in Colorado Springs for new moms and dads. Reach out today to get the support you need during this important season of life.

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Read more about the different types of anxiety in this blog series: Understanding Anxiety:  Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety, Teen Anxiety, Post-Partum Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Performance Anxiety.