Postpartum Depression, Anxiety & OCD Therapy in Orlando

Up to 1 in 5 new mothers experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder. At Perinatal Wellness & Psychological Services, we provide compassionate therapy to support mothers experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and related conditions.

Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Disorders

Most new mothers (up to 80%) experience the “baby blues” — short-lived mood swings, tearfulness, or irritability that usually begin a few days after birth and fade within two weeks. These changes are temporary and generally resolve without treatment.

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), including postpartum depression, anxiety, or OCD, are different. They are more intense, last longer than two weeks, and interfere with daily life and bonding with your baby. Unlike the baby blues, PMADs often require professional support and treatment to fully recover.

Types of Postpartum Mental Health Conditions

➔ Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression symptoms may begin within days of delivery or gradually develop in the first year. Unlike the baby blues, postpartum depression does not simply fade away — it requires professional care.

Frequent sadness or crying
Changes in appetite
Insomnia or hypersomnia
Intense fatigue with low mood
Emotional numbness
Feelings of helplessness or despair
Irritability, surges of anger
Feelings of inadequacy, guilt, or shame
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Frightening feelings or thoughts
Anxiety/panic
Overconcern for your baby
Lack of interest in sex
Lack of feelings for your baby
Dramatic changes in mood, including thoughts of suicide

➔ Postpartum Anxiety & Panic

Some mothers may not feel depressed but instead experience overwhelming anxiety or panic. This can feel frightening and exhausting but is treatable with support.

Intense anxiety or fear
Rapid heart rate
Sense of doom
Hot or cold flashes
Chest pain or tightness
Shaking or dizziness
Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)

➔ Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD can first appear after childbirth or worsen if you already had OCD. Many mothers with postpartum OCD experience intrusive thoughts that are upsetting but do not reflect actual desires.

Anxiety and distressing intrusive thoughts
Repetitive behaviors or rituals
Excessive cleaning or checking
Avoidance of the baby or triggering situations
Fear of harming the baby — these thoughts are common, but very rarely acted upon

➔ Postpartum Psychosis - Emergency Condition ⚠️

Postpartum psychosis is rare (1–2 in 1,000 births) but extremely serious. It often begins within the first two weeks after delivery and requires immediate medical treatment.

Hallucinations or delusions
Severe insomnia
Agitation, fear, or paranoia
Rapid mood swings
Confusion or disconnection from reality

⚠️ Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek immediate help.

How Therapy Helps

You do not have to face postpartum depression, anxiety, or OCD alone. Therapy provides:

A safe, compassionate space to share difficult emotions
Evidence-based strategies to reduce symptoms and restore balance
Support for bonding with your baby and strengthening relationships
Guidance for partners to better understand and support mothers

Support in Orlando & Across PSYPACT States

I provide therapy in Orlando, Florida, and through telehealth across PSYPACT states. This allows mothers to receive consistent, specialized care no matter where they live.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I know if I have postpartum depression or just the baby blues?
A: Baby blues usually resolve within 2 weeks, while postpartum depression persists or worsens and interferes with daily life.

Q: Can postpartum anxiety or OCD happen without depression?
A: Yes. Some mothers mainly experience anxiety, panic, or intrusive thoughts without classic depression symptoms.

Q: What should I do if I think I have postpartum psychosis?
A: Seek emergency medical care immediately. Postpartum psychosis is rare but serious and requires urgent treatment.

Q: Can therapy help my partner too?
A: Yes. Partners can be included in therapy sessions to better understand symptoms and learn supportive strategies.

Next Steps

If you are struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, or OCD, know that recovery is possible.

To schedule in-person therapy in Orlando, or online via PSYPACT telehealth, contact Perinatal Wellness & Psychological Services today ➔