Becoming a New Parent is Hard

Parenthood is a major transition. It means the change of many things as we once knew them. Although it can be a joyful and loving time, for many it can be filled with stress and anxiety. The distress a new parent experiences can be normal, talking to someone can help you make sense of your new thoughts, feelings and worries during this transition period in you and your family's life. 

 Although distress is a common and normal experience when becoming a new parent or adding a new baby to the family, 1 in 5 women will develop a more serious mental health concern called a PMAD (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder) 


1 in 10 dads gets postpartum depression, and up to 18% develop a clinically significant anxiety disorder such as generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder at some point during the pregnancy or the first year postpartum.

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders have been identified in parents of every culture, age, income level and ethnicity.  15-20% of women experience more serious symptoms during or after the birth of their baby.

Are you feeling sad or depressed?
Do you feel more irritable or angry with those around you?
Are you having difficulty bonding with your baby?
Do you feel anxious or panicky?
Are you having problems with eating or sleeping?
Are you having difficulty concentrating or making decisions?
Are you having upsetting thoughts that you can’t get out of your mind?
Do you feel as if you are “out of control” or “going crazy”?
Do you feel like you never should have become a mother?
Are you worried that you might hurt your baby or yourself?

Any of these symptoms, and many more, could indicate that you have a form of perinatal mood or anxiety disorder, such as postpartum depression. While many birth parents experience some mild mood changes during or after the birth of a child, 15 to 20%  experience more significant symptoms of depression or anxiety. Please know that with informed care you can prevent a worsening of these symptoms and can fully recover. There is no reason to continue to suffer. Symptoms can appear any time during pregnancy and the first 12 months after childbirth. There are effective and well-researched treatment options to help you recover. 


You are not alone. You are not to blame. With help, you will be well.