By Haja Kargbo, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bringing a new life into the world is often described as one of the most joyful times in a woman’s life, but for many women, that joy is layered with exhaustion, worry, isolation, and sadness that they never expected.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner who works closely with women, I want to talk honestly about postpartum mental health. Despite the numerous baby showers, social media announcements, and glowing stories we hear, many women silently struggle with postpartum mental health after giving birth. And they shouldn’t have to suffer in silence.
It’s common to feel overwhelmed, tearful, or moody during the first few days after delivery—often called the “baby blues.” But when these feelings last longer than two weeks or begin to interfere with your ability to function or connect with your baby, it may be something more: postpartum depression or anxiety.
Postpartum mental health conditions can affect any woman, regardless of age, background, race, or whether this is her first or fifth child. You might feel disconnected from your baby, worry constantly that something will go wrong, struggle to sleep even when the baby is sleeping, or feel a deep sense of guilt or inadequacy. Some women even experience scary or intrusive thoughts they would rather not say out loud. These symptoms do not reflect your strength, love, or ability to be a wonderful mother. They are signs that your mind and body are overwhelmed and need support.
And here’s the good news: help is available and works. Whether through therapy, medication, support groups, or lifestyle changes, many women recover and go on to feel like themselves again, stronger, more connected, and more empowered.
As a provider, I often hear women say they’re afraid to speak up because they don’t want to be judged, seen as weak, or have their parenting questioned. Let me reassure you: seeking help is not a failure—it’s one of the bravest things you can do. You deserve to feel well. Your mental health is just as important as your baby’s.
To the women reading this: You are not alone. You are not broken. You are not a bad mom. You are human—and healing is possible.
To the loved ones of new moms: Check in. Ask how she’s really doing—not just how the baby is sleeping. Listen with compassion, not correction. Your support could be the lifeline she needs.
Let’s keep breaking the silence around women’s mental health and postpartum care. No one should suffer quietly when help is within reach.
