Postpartum Depression vs Postpartum Anxiety

Postpartum anxiety and Postpartum depression occur right after giving birth to a baby, but both conditions are different in their own ways. Most importantly, this can occur to mother or father, both, even if it can happen to biological, surrogate, or even adopted parents. In postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression, one feels extreme sadness and hopelessness. They think that they are not going to be good parents, as they are not treating their child appropriately. On the other hand, postpartum anxiety gives excessive worry and nervousness about everything. They often fear that the baby can fall off the bed or might get hurt.

This article delves into the key differences between postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety on the grounds of their emotional, behavioral, diagnostic, and treatment differences.

Postpartum depression vs postpartum anxiety: Key Differences 

Here is the breakdown of differences in Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety.

Emotional difference

Postpartum depression and Postpartum anxiety have some emotional differences. Both conditions can affect at the same time, but that is not always the case.

Difference in symptoms 

Postpartum depression is a subtype of Perinatal depression. Postpartum depression and Postpartum anxiety have some overlapping symptoms, which makes the diagnosis more challenging and difficult. However, both conditions have differences in symptoms.

These include:

Behavioral differences 

Postpartum depression and anxiety have different behavioral responses due to different core experiences. Both conditions can impact the overall family and the baby. Here are the behavioral differences between these two conditions.

Difference in prevalence 

Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety have different prevalences. Postpartum depression is more common as compared to postpartum anxiety.

Here is how;

Differences in terms of motivation 

Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety both impact motivation, but the impact of motivation is different. In this particular scenario, postpartum depression is more critical than postpartum anxiety.

Here is how:

Differences in energy levels 

Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety both impact energy, but they have different reasons for having decreased energy levels.

Here is how:

Differences in decision-making 

Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety both affect the ability to make decisions, for different reasons.

Here is how:

Differences in occurrence 

Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety have significant differences in occurrence. The exact cause is still unknown, but there are some factors that might contribute to the development of both.

Here is how:

Differences in Diagnosis 

There is no specific test available to diagnose postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety. It can be diagnosed by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Here is how;

Differences in treatments 

Every person has a different tendency and a different severity of symptoms. Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety are highly treatable with the right medications and therapies.

Medications

A healthcare professional prescribes antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication; these medications help in managing the brain chemicals that enhance your mood.

If you are a mother breastfeeding your child, then consult your mental healthcare provider before taking any medications.

Here are some medications that can be helpful;

Psychotherapy 

Talk therapy is very effective for treating postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety. Sometimes, a healthcare professional combines two or three therapies to get the desired treatments according to an individual’s condition and needs.   

Here is how therapies are helpful;

Cognitive behavioral therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most effective therapies that helps in changing upsetting thoughts. It is based on the principle that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected.

Here is how it’s helpful in postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Interpersonal therapy is an evidence-based therapy that helps the therapist understand the emotions and feelings to address the difficult thought patterns.

Here is how interpersonal therapy is helpful;

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

It’s a form of CBT that aims to provide effective treatments for people suffering from postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety. This therapy helps individuals to accept their thoughts but still move on with them by changing them in a productive way.

Here is how it’s helpful;

Parent-Infant Psychotherapy

This talk therapy focuses on the bond and relationship between the mother and the child. It’s very effective for parents struggling with postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety.

Here is how;

Support groups

Support groups play an important role in reducing the symptoms of postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety. It provides a sense of connection with others and reduces isolation. It provides a nurturing environment where you can talk about your issues without the fear of judgment and stigma. Individuals share their experience with others who are struggling with the same issues. People share tips and strategies with each other to overcome the symptoms of postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety.

Nurture your mind at Brain Power Wellness Institute 

Are you overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts and fears? Do you feel sad and have a lack of interest after becoming a parent? You might be suffering from postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety. Find exceptional care at Brain Power Wellness Institute. Our mental health experts utilize evidence-based therapeutic approaches in a home-like space to address the unique challenges.

Explore More on This Topic: Can Men Get Postpartum Depression?

Last thoughts 

Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety are two separate conditions that are very common and occur right after giving birth to the baby. Both conditions are highly treatable with talk therapies and medications like SSRIs and SNRIs. This condition is deeper than baby blues, and it also affects the bond between the mother and the infant. Both conditions have similar symptoms, which causes difficulty in diagnosing the conditions. Moreover, connecting with friends and family or a support group can also help to overcome the isolation.

Book a consultation today to eliminate depressive and unwanted thoughts.