Common Feelings After Having a Baby

Having a baby can bring a mix of emotions. You may feel happy or excited, but you may also feel sad or overwhelmed. Many people experience depression and anxiety before and after birth.

Check in on your feelings during pregnancy and after your baby is born. Be honest with yourself. Help and support are available.

Common Mood Changes

Mood changes happen to many new parents and usually go away after a couple of weeks. Here are some things you may notice:

• Not feeling like yourself
• Trouble managing your emotions
• Feeling overwhelmed, but still able to care for yourself and your baby

If you experience any of these, the following could help:

• Ask your partner, family, or a babysitter to watch the baby, so you can rest.
• Start moving again if it’s safe to do so.
• Watch for signs of depression or anxiety.
• Talk to your health care provider if you're unsure or if things get worse.

Signs of Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

Sometimes feelings of depression or anxiety stick around and don't get better on their own. You might notice:

• Intense anxiety that comes without warning
• Difficulty thinking clearly or finishing tasks
• Feeling like you're just going through the motions
• Little interest in things you used to enjoy
• Feeling very anxious around your baby
• Scary thoughts that don't go away
• Feeling guilty or like you're failing

You’re not alone, and help is available. Talk with your health care provider or visit a health clinic.

You can also reach out to:

• Postpartum Support International: 1-800-944-4PPD (4773)
• Your partner, family, or friends for support

If You Feel Like You’re in a Crisis

Reach out for emergency help if you feel…

• Hopeless or total despair
• Out of touch with reality (seeing or hearing things others don't)
• Like you may hurt yourself or your baby

Get immediate help:

• Call 911.
• Call or text 988 for Crisis Support Services of Nevada. Spanish speakers can call: 1-888-628-9454.
• Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

More Support and Resources

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Free, confidential support 24/7 in English, Spanish, and 60+ other languages. Help before, during, and after pregnancy.

• 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS (1-833-943-5746)

Postpartum Support International HelpLine: Available 8am-11pm EST in English and Spanish. Not a crisis line.

• 1-800-944-4773 (call) or text "Help" to 800-944-4773
• For Spanish: Text 971-203-7773

Mom's Mental Health Matters

• For English (https://www.nichd.nih.gov/ncmhep/initiatives/moms-mental-health-matters/moms)
• For Spanish (https://espanol.nichd.nih.gov/actividades-proyectos/la-salud-mental-de-las-mamas)