Which is More Common Between Postpartum Anxiety & Depression?
Great question. One that definitely needs a further look.
There are parents and caregivers all around the world experiencing postpartum anxiety but not talking about it to anyone. What are the symptoms of postpartum anxiety?
We found a study that looks at the results of postpartum anxiety and depression compared. Which is more common?
You can take a quick postpartum anxiety quiz. See which boxes you check. The first step to prioritize mental health begins with you.
Related: The Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook
What Are Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety?
Postpartum anxiety symptoms are a struggle and common for a new mom.
Each symptom can cause worry and stress for parents. Symptoms include constant fear, restlessness, and trouble sleeping.
It's like having a never-ending to-do list in your head! The 22 hours per day it takes taking care of a newborn can feel like twice that. Remember, it's okay to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed.
If you find yourself constantly on edge or experience feelings of dread, reach out to your healthcare provider. Getting support can unlock the door to peace of mind.
You're not alone in this journey. Take care of yourself, mama! You’re not alone.
So if you experience restlessness, have trouble sleeping, feelings of continuous fear or dread, you may want to speak with a professional.
If you’re strong-willed with amazing confidence, keep going. Push through postpartum anxiety symptoms. Remember, it gets easier.
Postpartum Anxiety Study
We found an interesting peer reviewed study under the scholarly research parenting umbrella called Postpartum Anxiety and Maternal Infant Health Outcomes.
Published from The Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the researchers looked at a group of 1123 participants during and after their postpartum hospital stay.
From the group, new mothers completed in-person and telephone survey interviews at 2 weeks, 2 months and 6 months during and after postpartum hospital stays.
The interviews assessed healthcare use, breastfeeding duration, anxiety and depression. Participants agreed to take anxiety and depression scored tests and all fully intended to breastfeed.
RELATED: 10 Sleeping Tips For New Parents
Postpartum Anxiety Study Methods
The study pursued to find the frequency of postpartum anxiety during maternal hospitalization and maternal/child outcome correlations. The intent was to determine whether anxiety or depression was more frequent.
The scores of each ailment were calculated using 2 different types of psychological tests.
The anxiety scores were calculated from the STAI. The STAI or State Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to measure the presence of anxiety.
The depression scores were calculated from the EPDS. The EPDS or Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Survey was used to measure the presence of depression.
For all the nerds out there, more specifics on study methodology can be found at Postpartum Anxiety and Maternal Infant Health Outcomes.
Postpartum Anxiety Quiz
There are ways to alleviate the looming stress and constant worry. Take a quick postpartum anxiety quiz to put your mind at ease.
Have you taken a break from baby duties lately?
Have you talked to someone recently about it?
Have you reached out to a specialist in psychology or cognitive studies?
Do you get regular exercise, eat right, and at least try to maximize rest?
Are you avoiding taking anti-anxiety medication if breastfeeding?
You should be saying yes to these questions. Take a quick self-assessment of your situation. It’s hard to give a one-size-fits-all answer. Everyone has a different, unique situation they’re dealing with.
If you check these boxes with a no, are consumed with unbearable concern, we urge you to find a health care provider. Talk to someone.
Post-natal appointments are a perfect time to talk to someone.
Prioritize your mental health. You owe it to your mini munchkin to get it taken care of sooner than later.
Postpartum Anxiety Study Results
The results of the study were rather eye-opening. Mothers had more postpartum anxiety and depression less often. We thought the opposite would have been the case.
They concluded 17% of study participants had anxiety compared to the 6% experiencing depression.
Not only was it higher in frequency, but positive scores from STAI (State Trait Anxiety Inventory) were positively correlated with the variable of cesarean delivery and reduced duration of breastfeeding.
Anxiety was found more frequent than depression in 2 weeks, 2 months and 6 months. Every time interval studied in the group participant list recorded higher in postpartum anxiety.
Conclusions of PPA Study
More screening during postpartum stay was suggested to improve outcomes.
With more screening, a greater volume of study participants from more diverse interpersonal and intercultural backgrounds would increase validity of results.
We need to shine a light on a wider perspective and build more off this study. The fact that we care for our kids so much, and love them so much, we can’t let it be at the cost of our own mental health.
You are the #1 pick to care of your child. Nobody can do it better.
Don't hesitate to seek help and talk about your feelings if you have symptoms. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your little one.
