Key points
- Baby blues are mild mood changes in the first two weeks after birth, and they usually ease within days.
- Symptoms that are severe or last longer than two weeks may be signs of postpartum depression.
- Postpartum anxiety often shows up as constant worry, racing thoughts and a feeling that something bad might happen.
- Perinatal depression and anxiety are medical conditions, not something a parent caused, and they can be treated.
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or signs of psychosis, need urgent help right away.
What the baby blues are
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) describes the baby blues as mild and short-lasting mood changes, along with feelings of worry, unhappiness and exhaustion. They begin soon after giving birth and happen in the first two weeks.
Feeling tired or overwhelmed is also a normal part of caring for a newborn who needs attention around the clock. The Office on Women's Health says the baby blues usually go away within a few days.
The baby blues can still feel rough. Rest when you can, accept help with meals and chores, and tell someone you trust how you are feeling.
How postpartum depression is different
Postpartum depression lasts longer, is more severe and may need treatment from a health care professional. NIMH says that mood changes that are severe, or that last longer than two weeks after childbirth, may be signs of postpartum depression. Depression can also begin during pregnancy, which is why the term perinatal depression is often used.
NIMH is clear on one point that many parents need to hear: perinatal depression is a medical condition, and it is not caused by anything a mother has or has not done.
- A sad, anxious or "empty" mood most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks
- Feeling hopeless, guilty, worthless or helpless
- Irritability, frustration or restlessness
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
- Trouble sleeping even when the baby is asleep, or sleeping too much
- Trouble bonding with the baby, or persistent doubts about your ability to care for the baby
- Thoughts of death, or of harming yourself or the baby
What postpartum anxiety looks like
Some new parents feel more wired than sad. Postpartum Support International describes perinatal anxiety as constant worry and a feeling that something bad might happen. Other symptoms it lists include racing thoughts, changes in sleep and appetite, being unable to sit still, and physical symptoms such as dizziness, hot flashes and nausea.
Some worry is part of caring for a tiny person. Constant worry that will not settle can be a sign of something more, and the Office on Women's Health notes that anxiety disorders can occur during or after pregnancy.
Some people with anxiety also have panic attacks, with shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness or a pounding heart. If you are not sure whether a physical symptom is anxiety, ask a medical provider.
When to get help
You do not have to wait and see. The Office on Women's Health advises calling your doctor, nurse, midwife or pediatrician if baby blues do not go away after two weeks or are very intense, if it is difficult to work or get things done at home, or if you cannot care for yourself or your baby, including eating, sleeping and bathing.
Partners, family and friends are often the first to notice a change. NIMH suggests they can help by encouraging a conversation with a health care provider, helping with appointments, offering emotional support and taking on daily tasks.
For support before, during and after pregnancy, the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is available by call or text at 1-833-852-6262, at any hour.
Symptoms that need urgent help
If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call or text 988, or call 911. Locascio Wellness does not provide emergency services. Our crisis resources page lists more options.
Postpartum psychosis is a serious condition that can occur after childbirth. The symptoms below are a psychiatric emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Call 911 or go to an emergency room for
- Seeing, hearing or smelling things that are not there
- Beliefs that are not based in reality
- Paranoia or severe confusion
- An elevated mood that is out of touch with reality
How therapy helps, and how we can help
NIMH names cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy as evidence-based therapies for perinatal depression. Postpartum Support International lists counseling, including cognitive behavioral therapy, alongside sleep, practical help and peer support for perinatal anxiety. Questions about medication belong with a prescriber, such as your obstetric or primary care provider.
Therapists on our team work with people during pregnancy and after birth. Our perinatal and postpartum therapy page explains how, and you can read more about anxiety therapy and depression therapy.
All sessions are by secure video, so there is no drive to an office. Clients must be physically in Pennsylvania, West Virginia or Arizona during a session. You can book a free 15-minute consultation, and our insurance and fees page explains coverage. Things can get better, and asking for help is a strong way to care for your baby and yourself.
Common questions
How long do the baby blues last?
The baby blues are short. The National Institute of Mental Health describes them as mild mood changes in the first two weeks after birth, and the Office on Women's Health says they usually go away within a few days. Symptoms that are severe, or that last longer than two weeks, may be signs of postpartum depression and are worth raising with a health care provider.
Can you have postpartum anxiety without depression?
Postpartum Support International describes perinatal anxiety with its own set of symptoms, such as constant worry, racing thoughts and a feeling that something bad might happen. Anxiety and depression can also show up together. You do not need to know which one it is, or have a diagnosis, to reach out for help.
Did I cause my postpartum depression?
No. The National Institute of Mental Health states that perinatal depression is a medical condition that can affect any pregnant or postpartum woman, and that it is not caused by anything she has or has not done. It is not a sign of weak character or of being a bad parent. It is a condition that can be treated.
Can I do postpartum therapy online with a newborn?
Yes. All of our sessions are by secure video from a phone, tablet or computer, so you can meet from home. You need an internet connection and a spot where you can talk freely. You must be physically in Pennsylvania, West Virginia or Arizona during sessions, and you can start with a free 15-minute consultation.
Sources
Published by Locascio Wellness. Published October 13, 2026. Clinically reviewed by Anthony Locascio, PsyD, LPC. This page is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis.