Postpartum Anxiety & Depression: How to Know When to Get Help
By Kelly Sinning, MA, LPC — Maternal Mental Health Therapist, Fort Collins CO
Understanding Postpartum Mental Health
Bringing a baby into the world can be both beautiful and overwhelming. While many new mothers experience the baby blues, it’s important to recognize when those feelings go beyond normal adjustment. Postpartum anxiety and depression—often called perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs)—affect about one in five women after giving birth.
As a maternal mental health therapist in Fort Collins, I remind moms that these symptoms don’t mean you’re failing. They’re signs your mind and body need care, just as your body does after birth.
Signs You May Be Experiencing Postpartum Anxiety or Depression
Every woman’s experience is unique, but common indicators that professional postpartum anxiety and depression counseling may help include:
Emotional Symptoms
Persistent sadness, emptiness, or tearfulness
Guilt or feelings of inadequacy
Irritability, anger, or emotional numbness
Difficulty bonding with your baby
Physical & Cognitive Symptoms
Sleep or appetite changes not related to newborn care
Racing thoughts or excessive worry
Trouble concentrating or feeling “foggy”
Panic attacks or physical sensations of anxiety
Behavioral Changes
Withdrawing from loved ones
Feeling detached from daily life
Losing interest in things that once brought joy
If you find yourself thinking, “I should be happier,” but you’re not—please know you’re not alone.
When It’s Time to Seek Professional Help
Don’t wait until things feel unbearable. Consider contacting a postpartum therapist in Colorado if:
Your symptoms last more than two weeks
You feel anxious or down most of the day
Thoughts interfere with sleep, appetite, or daily life
You feel disconnected from your baby or partner
You have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
Early support makes a profound difference. With compassionate, evidence-based treatment—therapy, community support, sometimes medication—most women recover fully.
How Postpartum Counseling Can Help
Working with a maternal mental health therapist allows you to:
Learn tools to manage anxiety and intrusive thoughts
Process emotional changes in identity, relationships, and expectations
Reconnect with your sense of self
Build a “village” of personal and professional support
At Fulfill & Flourish Counseling & Coaching, I help women navigate postpartum, infertility, and motherhood transitions. Together, we uncover what’s happening beneath the surface and create a plan for healing and connection.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Reaching out for help is an act of love for you and your baby. If you’re feeling persistent sadness or anxiety—or simply know something feels off—postpartum counseling in Fort Collins can help you feel like yourself again.
Contact me at fulfillandflourishco.com or email kelly@kellysinningcounseling.com.
Let’s help you fulfill and flourish in motherhood.
