06/10/2026
I recently spent time investing in additional training on a topic that is incredibly important to me both personally and professionally: Perinatal Anxiety & OCD.
One of the biggest takeaways was discussing the difference between normal mom worry, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum OCD—because while they can look similar on the surface, they are very different experiences.
đź’™ Normal Mom Worry: Occasional concerns about your baby's well-being, safety, and development. These worries come and go and don't significantly interfere with daily life.
đź’™ Postpartum Anxiety: Persistent, excessive worry that feels difficult to control. It often involves racing thoughts, constant "what if" scenarios, physical symptoms of anxiety, trouble sleeping even when given the opportunity, and feeling on edge much of the time.
💙 Postpartum OCD: Characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that feel upsetting and out of character. Parents often engage in mental or behavioral compulsions such as checking, reassurance-seeking, avoiding situations, researching, or repeating rituals to reduce anxiety. Contrary to common fears, these thoughts are not intentions—they are a symptom of OCD and can be incredibly distressing.
As someone who has experienced postpartum OCD myself and as a therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health, this topic is especially close to my heart. I see many parents suffering in silence because they don't realize what they're experiencing has a name, is common, and is highly treatable.
I'm grateful for opportunities to continue learning from leaders in the field so I can better support the mothers, fathers, and families who walk through my office doors. The more we talk about perinatal mental health, the more we reduce shame and help parents get the support they deserve.
✨ If you've ever wondered, "Is this normal worry, anxiety, or OCD?" know that you're not alone, and help is available.
