How to Recognize When You Need Help Postpartum and Where to Find It
Have you thought about what you'll do if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or just “off” after the baby arrives? It’s so common, yet so easy to overlook in the excitement and planning for your new little one. Maybe you've even heard whispers about "postpartum mood disorders" or just the general challenges of that period but feel like, “Surely I’ll be fine.”
Well, you’re not alone in feeling that way—and you’re also not alone if you do find yourself struggling once you’re in the thick of it. Every mom needs a plan for when she’s facing more than she can handle—whether it’s for a perinatal mood disorder (PMD) or just the everyday overwhelm of new motherhood.
What You Will Learn in This Blog Post:
The basics of perinatal mood disorders and why no mom is exempt from needing help
How to recognize the signs that you could use some extra support
Where to find help—whether it’s for your mental health or just a much-needed break
What Are Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMDs), and Why Should Every Mom Plan for Support?
PMDs refer to mood and anxiety disorders that can appear during pregnancy or after birth. You might’ve heard of postpartum depression (PPD), but there’s also postpartum anxiety (PPA), obsessive-compulsive disorder (PPOCD), rage, and even postpartum psychosis in very rare cases. PMDs are common, affecting about 1 in 7 women, and they don’t care how much you wanted to be a mom, how prepared you feel, or how great your support system is.
The truth is, PMDs don’t discriminate—they can affect any mom, at any time. You may even recognize some of the signs right after birth, weeks later, or several months in. And while it’s natural to have some ups and downs with all the hormonal shifts and sleep deprivation, PMDs are more than that. They’re persistent feelings that make it tough to get through the day or feel like yourself again.
That’s why creating a “postpartum support plan” isn’t about assuming the worst or being pessimistic; it’s about being prepared and knowing you have options if things get hard. Even if you’re not struggling with a diagnosed mood disorder, having some support in place to help with household tasks or a break here and there can make a world of difference.
Signs That You Could Use Extra Help (And No, You’re Not Weak for Needing It!)
So, how do you know if you need help? Here are some signs to watch for, keeping in mind that there’s no shame in needing support:
You Feel More Down, Anxious, or Irritable Than Usual
It’s totally normal to feel tired or a bit emotional in those early days, but if you’re feeling low or irritable most of the time, struggling to enjoy things you normally would, or battling anxious thoughts, it might be time to ask for help.
You’re Constantly Overwhelmed by Everyday Tasks
If even small tasks like washing bottles or folding baby clothes feel impossible, or if you find yourself dreading basic chores, you might benefit from a break. Sometimes, bringing in a little extra help for household tasks can make everything feel so much more manageable.
You’re Not Sleeping (Even When Baby Is)
One of the biggest red flags for a PMD is insomnia. If you’re lying awake, wired, or dreading the night, even though your baby is snoozing, it’s a sign that you may need some outside support or professional guidance.
You’re Isolating Yourself or Avoiding Social Connection
Feeling like you don’t want to be around others—even when they’re offering to help—is a common symptom of PMDs. While alone time is healthy, cutting yourself off from everyone else can be a sign that you’d benefit from some outside support.
Where to Find the Help You Deserve
Knowing you need help is the first (and often hardest) step. Here are some practical options for finding the right support:
Mental Health Resources
If you’re struggling with your mental health, there are so many resources available. You could talk to your OB, reach out to a therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health, or explore support groups specifically for new moms. Many moms find comfort in speaking with someone who gets it.
Household and Daily Support
Sometimes, the help you need isn’t necessarily emotional but practical. Look into hiring a postpartum doula, who can provide physical and emotional support, or a newborn care specialist to help with baby care. You could also consider services for meal prep, laundry, or cleaning to take some of the weight off your shoulders.
Community and Social Support
You’d be surprised how much of a difference a strong support network can make. Connect with other new moms through online communities or local mom groups. These groups often have moms going through similar experiences, and they can be an incredible source of support and encouragement.
You Deserve Support, Mama 🌻
So, here’s the bottom line: creating a postpartum support plan doesn’t mean you’re assuming you’ll struggle; it means you’re prioritizing your well-being and equipping yourself for anything that comes your way. Motherhood is a monumental transition, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re dealing with PMDs or just the normal overwhelm of being a new mom, there is help out there, and you are so worthy of it.
To make it even easier to prepare, I’ve created Postpartum on Purpose: A Guide to Taking Charge of Your Well-Being—a step-by-step guide to help you recognize, plan for, and access the support you need. Because every mom deserves to feel seen, supported, and empowered on this journey. Ready to take that step? Download the guide today, and start creating a plan that puts your well-being first.
Disclaimer: I am not a mental health professional. Seek the advice of a trained medical provider if you are struggling with your mental health.
Before you leave, make sure to download your free guide!
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