Why Do I Feel Anxious All the Time Since Having a Baby
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Since your baby arrived, your mind rarely switches off. You check that they are breathing, worry about every feed and every sound, and lie awake even when the baby is sleeping. Your heart races over small things, and you imagine worst-case scenarios constantly. People keep telling you to enjoy this time, but it is hard to enjoy anything when you are this on edge.
Some worry is natural when you are responsible for a new baby. When anxiety is constant, hard to control, and getting in the way of rest and enjoyment, it may be postpartum anxiety, which is common and very treatable.
If you are having thoughts of suicide or of harming yourself or your baby, or feel unable to keep yourself safe, please call or text 9-8-8, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available anywhere in Canada at any time, or call 911.
It Could Be a Lot of Things
Sleep deprivation. Broken sleep makes everyone more anxious and less able to cope with stress.
A huge life change. Becoming a parent changes your identity, relationships, work, and routines all at once.
Hormonal shifts. Hormone levels change rapidly after birth and can affect mood and anxiety.
A difficult birth or health scare. A traumatic delivery, NICU stay, or health concern for the baby can leave lasting fear and hypervigilance.
Past anxiety or loss. A history of anxiety, infertility, or pregnancy loss can make it harder to feel safe after the baby arrives. Anxiety that started during pregnancy can also continue.
Physical causes. Postpartum thyroid problems and anemia can cause anxiety-like symptoms. A doctor can check.
When It Looks More Like Postpartum Anxiety or OCD
Postpartum anxiety is part of a group of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. It can appear any time in the first year after birth. Signs include:
- Constant worry that is hard to control, often about the baby's health or safety.
- Feeling on edge all the time, restless, or irritable.
- Trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps.
- Physical symptoms such as a racing heart, tight chest, or nausea.
- Checking on the baby repeatedly or struggling to let others care for them.
- Panic attacks.
Some parents experience postpartum OCD, which involves unwanted, distressing thoughts or images of harm coming to the baby, often followed by checking or avoidance. These thoughts are frightening precisely because they go against what the parent wants, as explained in Why Do I Have Scary Intrusive Thoughts About My Baby.
What Can Help
- Tell your care provider. Your doctor, midwife, or public health nurse can assess and connect you with support.
- Protect sleep. Share night feeds where possible and let others help so you can rest.
- Accept help. Letting trusted people care for the baby for short periods can ease pressure.
- Limit checking and searching. Reducing how often you check the baby or search worries online can lower anxiety over time.
- Connect with other parents. Parent groups can reduce isolation and normalize the challenges.
Getting Support at Pacific Maple Psych Centre
If anxiety since having your baby feels constant or overwhelming, therapy can help. Cognitive behavioural approaches are effective for postpartum anxiety and OCD, and support can help you feel more confident and settled as a parent. If medication is being considered, your doctor can discuss options that are compatible with breastfeeding.
Pacific Maple Psych Centre offers individual therapy for postpartum anxiety, perinatal OCD, and the transition to parenthood, in Vancouver and virtually across British Columbia.
Book a SessionCommon Questions About Anxiety After Having a Baby
What does postpartum anxiety feel like day to day?
Postpartum anxiety often shows up as constant worry about the baby, restlessness, trouble sleeping even when you have the chance, and physical symptoms like a racing heart. It is common and treatable.
Is it normal to worry about my baby all the time?
Some worry is normal for new parents. When worry is constant, hard to control, and affects sleep or enjoyment, it may be postpartum anxiety that would benefit from support.
Can I have postpartum anxiety without feeling depressed?
Yes. Postpartum anxiety centres on worry, restlessness, and fear, while postpartum depression involves low mood, loss of interest, and hopelessness. Many people experience both.
Why do I have frightening thoughts about harm coming to my newborn?
This can be postpartum OCD, which involves unwanted, distressing thoughts or images of harm coming to the baby, followed by checking, avoidance, or reassurance seeking. Parents with these thoughts are not a danger to their babies.
Why can't I sleep when my baby is sleeping?
Anxiety can keep your body on alert, making it hard to rest even when you have the chance. This is a common sign of postpartum anxiety.
When does postpartum anxiety start?
Postpartum anxiety can begin any time in the first year after birth. Some people notice it right away, while for others it develops gradually.
Can a traumatic birth cause anxiety afterward?
Yes. A difficult or traumatic birth can lead to anxiety, hypervigilance, and sometimes birth-related trauma symptoms. Support can help you process the experience.
Can partners get postpartum anxiety too?
Yes. Non-birthing parents can also experience anxiety and depression after a baby arrives. Support is important for all parents.
Is it safe to take anxiety medication while breastfeeding?
Some medications are considered compatible with breastfeeding. Your doctor can discuss options, risks, and benefits for your situation.
How is postpartum anxiety treated?
Cognitive behavioural therapy is an effective treatment for postpartum anxiety and OCD. Medication may also help. Support from partners, family, and parent groups is valuable too.