How to Support a Partner Experiencing Postpartum Depression or Anxiety

Seeing someone you love in pain, whether emotionally, mentally, or physically, can be one of the most difficult experiences in life. You want to help, but you may not always know the best way. There are so many intense emotions and big changes that come after having a baby, and it can be really hard to navigate maternal mental health at times. Postpartum depression and anxiety might affect your partner. This might be a difficult and overwhelming experience for both you and your partner! Postpartum depression (PPD) is actually very common, affecting about 1 in 7 women (or approximately 15%) after giving birth.

However, the actual number may be even higher, as many cases go unreported due to stigma or lack of awareness. Postpartum anxiety (PPA) is also very common, affecting about 10-20% of new mothers. In fact, some experts believe it may be just as common, if not more common, than postpartum depression (PPD), but it often goes undiagnosed because people focus more on depression after birth. Supporting a partner with postpartum depression (PPD) or postpartum anxiety ( PPA) requires patience, understanding, and practical help. Here’s how you can be there for them:

Learn About Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

Educate yourself about postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum anxiety (PPA), including their symptoms, causes, and effects. Knowing that it is a medical condition (not a weakness or failure) will help you provide better support. Some symptoms of postpartum depression can cause persistent sadness, extreme fatigue, and mood swings that go beyond the typical “baby blues.” Mothers may feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or disconnected from their baby, sometimes experiencing intense guilt or thoughts of being an inadequate parent. Many struggle with changes in sleep and appetite, even when their baby is resting, and may have trouble concentrating or making decisions.

In severe cases, PPD can lead to withdrawal from loved ones, anxiety, panic attacks, or even thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby. Postpartum anxiety (PPA) is characterized by excessive worry, racing thoughts, and constant fear, often focused on the baby’s health and safety. Mothers with PPA may feel restless, on edge, or overwhelmed, struggling to relax even when their baby is sleeping. Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath are also common. Many experience difficulty sleeping, even when exhausted, and may feel the urge to constantly check on their baby. Unlike postpartum depression, which is marked by sadness, PPA is driven by intense anxiety, irrational fears, and a sense of impending doom.

Help with Daily Tasks and Promote Self-Care

Supporting someone with postpartum depression (PPD) involves helping with daily tasks to ease their stress and allow them time to rest and heal. Simple actions like cooking meals, cleaning the house, doing laundry, or running errands can make a big difference. Taking over nighttime feedings, diaper changes, or soothing the baby allows the mother to catch up on much-needed sleep. Encouraging her to take breaks, shower, or engage in small self-care activities can also help a mother feel more like herself. It might be supportive to suggest breaks for naps, showers, or hobbies!

Discuss Signs of Postpartum Depression or Anxiety

Encouraging open communication is essential when supporting someone with postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety. Let them know that their feelings are valid and that they can talk to you without fear of judgment or criticism. It might be helpful to create a safe space by listening attentively, avoiding dismissive phrases like “Just be happy” or “You should be grateful,” and instead saying, “I’m here for you” or “It’s okay to feel this way.” It is suggested to ask open-ended questions like, “How are you really feeling?” and reassure them that they are not alone. As always, try to be patient, as they may struggle to express their emotions at times. Sometimes, just knowing someone is willing to listen and support them without pressure can make a world of difference!

Find a Postpartum Therapist in Colorado

Supporting professional help for a partner with postpartum depression (PPD) is crucial for their recovery. Encourage them to speak with a doctor, postpartum therapist, or psychologist, reassuring them that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Offer to help find a healthcare provider, schedule appointments, or even attend sessions with them if they feel comfortable. Remind them that PPD is a medical condition, not something they can just “snap out of,” and that treatment, whether through therapy, medication, or support groups, can make a real difference! Be patient and supportive, reinforcing that they are not alone and that getting help is an important step toward healing.

Final Thoughts from a Maternal Mental Health Therapist in Englewood, CO on Postpartum Depression & Anxiety

Mountain Vista Psychology has a team of highly trained mental health professionals that is ready to support your partner with whatever is going on. Reach out to schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation today! We can help you give your loved one the support and guidance they need to help them feel like their true selves again.

Learn More About Maternal Mental Health Therapy in Denver, Englewood, Littleton, & Greenwood Village, CO

Set your partner on the path toward improved maternal mental health at Mountain Vista Psychology. We’re here to assist with all the emotional challenges that motherhood can bring, offering compassion and understanding in every maternal mental health therapy session. Our goal is to offer a secure and supportive space where your loved one feels understood, encouraged, and empowered to care for their mental and emotional well-being. Our team is happy to walk alongside them every step of the way. Simply follow these three simple steps to get started:

1. Schedule a free phone consultation to discover if maternal mental health therapy is right for your loved one.
2. Help them begin meeting with a compassionate maternal mental health therapist.
3. Watch as they experience the benefits of postnatal therapy on their life and well-being.

Explore Other Mountain Vista Psychology Therapy Services in Colorado

At Mountain Vista Psychology, we are dedicated to empowering individuals on their path to mental and emotional well-being. Alongside maternal mental health therapy to support you throughout your motherhood journey, we offer a wide range of counseling services, including child counseling, teen counseling, adult counseling, family therapy, and parent support, as well as therapy for anxiety, depression counseling, and more. Our expertise also extends to Neurofeedback Therapy, with specialized Neurofeedback for ADHD, Neurofeedback for Anxiety, Neurofeedback for Concussion/TBI recovery, and Neurofeedback for sports or performance enhancement. Additionally, we provide comprehensive testing for learning disabilities, ADHD, and Autism. To learn more about our services, explore our Blog and FAQs for valuable insights and resources!