| Postpartum Depression | Postpartum Anxiety | |
|---|---|---|
| Core feeling | Sadness, emptiness, hopelessness | Worry, dread, being on edge |
| Thoughts | Guilt, worthlessness, low interest | Racing “what if” fears about the baby |
| Body | Fatigue, heaviness, slowed | Racing heart, tension, restlessness |
| How common | ~1 in 7 | ~11–17% |
| Treatment | Therapy, SSRIs, support | CBT, SSRIs, sleep + support |
Many mothers experience both at once. The treatments overlap heavily — therapy (especially CBT) and SSRIs help both. Read the full guides to postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety.
Yes, very often. They overlap and share treatments.
No, they are distinct, but they frequently co-occur and respond to similar treatments.
Emily is a chef, mother of five and postpartum-recovery educator who revives the 2,000-year-old zuo yuezi ("sitting month") tradition for modern mothers. Her patent-backed, food-first method helps women rebuild after birth and ease postpartum depression — and she now certifies doulas and midwives to cook it for their own clients.
Emily's food-first recovery course, recovery teas and doula & midwife certification live at The Sitting Month. Text Emily and she'll help you find the right starting point.
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