21/10/2025
The Hidden Side of Postpartum Anxiety & Depression (from a Mum that’s had it twice, and still in it)
You don’t always see it…you don’t always know what’s going on.
The mum who looks calm on the outside but is battling racing and intrusive thoughts inside.
The Mum who can’t sleep even when baby does.
The Mum Who feels detached, numb, or overly alert — all at once and at a loss of what to do. Yet still shows up smiling and ‘pushing through’
The Mum who actually asks for help but doesn’t get it, even when several people say oh just ask or let me know if you need help, but it’s just a surface level offer that has no depth or follow through.
What most people don’t realise is that,
1 in 5 new mums experience postpartum anxiety or depression — but many never speak up.
It’s not just “baby blues.” The symptoms can last for months or years and often begin weeks after birth.
It doesn’t always look like sadness. It can show up as irritability, obsessive and intrusive thoughts, perfectionism, or panic.
Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, trauma from birth, and nutrient depletion (like low B vitamins, iron, and omega-3s) can all contribute.
Many mums silently fear judgment — so they smile, keep going, and suffer in silence.
If you’re feeling this way — it’s not your fault.
Your body and mind are healing from one of life’s biggest transformations it will ever go through and nobody gets it like you.
You deserve rest, nourishment, and support — just as much as your baby does.
You are not alone, you are not failing, and help is available. Reach out to those that will actually show up. Go to a specialises post partum therapist (they are free in Australia, you just need to see your GP for a referral)
Reach out. Talk. Eat. Breathe. Heal. Do things that make you feel joyful and happy. Take a break when you need it.
This is all so much easier said than done.
I know first hand what it’s like to ask for help and not get it. I also know what it’s like asking for help and receive it. Some days are just hard, others are good.
