I’m a New Parent! Woo-hoo?

Congrats! You’re a new (or second or third time or more) parent! Woo-hoo! Except maybe you don’t feel like “woo-hoo-ing”. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and isolated. Maybe you feel more like… boo-hoo-ing. What a welcome to parenting! How’s that for a “new- parent glow”?

You’re probably wondering if these feelings are normal… and they absolutely are. No matter if you’re a new parent or a parent another time over, the birth of a new baby shifts our entire world. Everything is different and everything seems new again. While the postpartum period can be one of happiness and excitement, it is most certainly overwhelming and exhausting. 

How can you know if what you’re experiencing is more than just “baby blues”? Many mothers experience mood swings and tearfulness in the first 2-3 weeks after birth, which is completely normal and usually goes away on its own. However, 1 in 5 new parents may develop a mental health disorder before or during the postpartum period. This might include things like postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum OCD, etc. So, if you experience any of the following symptoms, please consider reaching out for support: 

• sadness

• hopelessness

• worthlessness

• guilt

• anxiety/ panic

• intrusive thoughts

• flashbacks

• feeling disconnected from reality

• feeling disconnected from your baby.

No matter the type of birth, stage of parenting, and/ or makeup of your family, you aren’t alone. And while this time can feel lonely, overwhelming, and disorienting, support from friends, family, community members, and mental health professionals can make all the difference. Please consider reaching out for support through our contact options on our Contacts page.

You. Are. Not. Alone.