Postpartum Anxiety: Understanding the Worry That Won't Quit

Bringing a new baby home is one of life's most transformative experiences — and for many new mothers in the greater Atlanta area and beyond, it comes with an unexpected companion: relentless anxiety. If you find yourself checking on your baby's breathing every few minutes, catastrophizing about unlikely dangers, or feeling physically tense no matter how hard you try to relax, you may be dealing with postpartum anxiety.

While postpartum depression gets significant attention, postpartum anxiety is incredibly common — research suggests it affects up to 21% of new mothers. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, GA, we help new parents navigate these overwhelming feelings with compassion and evidence-based care.

What Does Postpartum Anxiety Feel Like?

Postpartum anxiety often centers on the well-being of your newborn. You might experience intense fear about leaving the baby with anyone — even your partner. You may worry constantly about illness, accidents, or something terrible happening the moment you look away. Unlike the occasional worry every new parent experiences, postpartum anxiety is persistent, intrusive, and difficult to control.

Emotional Symptoms

• Irrational or disproportionate fears about your baby's safety
• Excessive, uncontrollable worry throughout the day
• Difficulty concentrating on everyday tasks
• Irritability and mood swings
• Hypervigilance — feeling like you must stay alert at all times
• Racing thoughts that feel impossible to slow down

Physical Symptoms

• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Decreased appetite
• Rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations
• Difficulty sleeping (beyond normal newborn sleep disruption)
• Shortness of breath
• Tense muscles and restlessness

Behavioral Signs

You might notice yourself constantly checking on the baby, avoiding situations that feel remotely risky, or becoming overly controlling about who holds or cares for your child. These behaviors are driven by anxiety, not personality — and they're treatable.

Postpartum Anxiety vs. Postpartum OCD

Some new mothers experience intrusive, disturbing thoughts — such as fears of accidentally harming the baby. These unwanted thoughts are a hallmark of postpartum OCD, a related but distinct condition. These thoughts do not reflect your desires or values; they represent the opposite of what you want. If you're experiencing intrusive thoughts, it's essential to speak with a mental health professional who can help you find relief without judgment.

When Should You Seek Help?

If anxiety is interfering with your ability to care for yourself or your baby, disrupting your sleep beyond normal newborn patterns, or causing you significant distress, it's time to talk to a professional. There's no need to struggle in silence.

Treatment for Postpartum Anxiety in Lilburn, GA

At Next Step Psychiatry, our team — led by Medical Director Dr. Aneel Ursani and supported by Fathima Chowdhury, PA-C — provides personalized treatment plans for postpartum anxiety. Treatment may include:

• Medication management: SSRIs and other medications that are safe during breastfeeding can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms
• Therapy referrals: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is highly effective for anxiety disorders
• Supportive care: Regular follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed

Serving families throughout Lilburn, Lawrenceville, Snellville, Stone Mountain, and the greater Atlanta metro area, we make it easy to get the help you need close to home.