Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

You just had a baby and something feels wrong. You're not bonding the way you expected, or you're anxious in a way that won't turn off, or you're crying without knowing why. Maybe you're having thoughts that scare you. This is not who you are, and it's not something you have to push through.

 

Postpartum depression and anxiety are the most common complications of childbirth. They can start immediately after delivery or develop gradually over the first year. They can follow any pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or loss. And they're treatable.

 

At Waypoint, this is our specialty. Our licensed therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners work together so you don't have to coordinate your own care. Your first appointment is a full evaluation. From there, we build a treatment plan that may include therapy, psychiatric medication, or both, depending on what you need.

 

Our goal is to help you feel like yourself again, and to get there as quickly as possible.

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What is a perinatal mood disorder?

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) are a group of conditions that can occur during pregnancy or in the year following birth. They include postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum OCD, postpartum PTSD, and postpartum psychosis. PMADs are the most common complication of childbirth, affecting one in five new mothers.

 

What's the difference between the baby blues and postpartum depression?

Baby blues are common in the first one to two weeks after delivery and typically resolve on their own. Postpartum depression is more intense, lasts longer, and doesn't improve without treatment. If you're past the two-week mark and still struggling, that's worth evaluating.

 

What does postpartum depression actually look like?

The most common symptoms include persistent sadness, anxiety that won't turn off, irritability or rage, difficulty bonding with your baby, intrusive or scary thoughts, trouble sleeping even when your baby sleeps, and feeling like you're not cut out for this. Symptoms vary widely.

 

How long does postpartum depression last?

Without treatment, symptoms can persist for months or longer. With appropriate support, most women experience meaningful improvement within weeks to months. Early intervention leads to faster recovery. If you've been struggling for more than two weeks after birth, reaching out to a provider is the right next step.

 

When should I seek help?

If you've felt persistently sad, anxious, numb, or unlike yourself for more than two weeks after giving birth, reach out. You don't need to be in crisis. If your mood is affecting your ability to care for yourself or your baby, or if you're having scary thoughts, contact a provider promptly.

 

I'm having scary thoughts about my baby. Does that mean I'm dangerous?

No. Intrusive thoughts are a recognized symptom of postpartum OCD and postpartum anxiety. They are not a sign that you want to hurt your baby. Tell your provider. We're trained in this, and we won't overreact.

 

My OB said I'm fine, but I don't feel fine. Should I still come in?

Yes. Standard postpartum screenings are brief and miss many cases. If you don't feel like yourself, that's a valid reason to come in regardless of what a screening score says.

 

Can I get medication if I'm breastfeeding?

Yes. There are medications with strong safety records for breastfeeding mothers. Our nurse practitioners have specialized training in perinatal pharmacology and will walk through the options with you directly.

 

Can postpartum depression start months after delivery?

Yes. Symptoms can develop gradually and may not appear until weeks or months after birth. There's no cutoff. If something feels off, it's worth looking into.

 

What does treatment look like at Waypoint?

Treatment starts with a full evaluation of your symptoms, history, and needs. Our licensed therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners hold specialized training and certification in perinatal mental health through Postpartum Support International. Treatment may include therapy, psychiatric medication, or both depending on what you need.

 

Do you treat partners too?

Yes. Paternal postpartum depression is real and underdiagnosed. We offer individual therapy for partners and couples sessions when postpartum stress is affecting the relationship.

 

Is this available virtually?

Yes. We offer telehealth across all of North Carolina, as well as in-person appointments at our Durham and Raleigh offices.

 

Do I need a referral?

No. You can request an appointment directly through our website link (below) or by calling 919-275-1405.