Postpartum Anxiety: How New Mums Can Find Calm & Support

Hi, I’m Hilary.

As a Holistic Nutritionist and Product Developer, I’ve spent years studying hormonal health, yet nothing could have fully prepared me for the reality of postpartum recovery. The hormonal shifts, the sleep deprivation, the constant feeling of needing to be everything to everyone—it’s overwhelming. And for many new mums, this overwhelm turns into something deeper: Postpartum Anxiety.

Unlike Postpartum Depression, which is often associated with sadness or detachment, Postpartum Anxiety is marked by constant worry, racing thoughts, and an inability to relax. Some mothers experience Postpartum depression rage, where frustration and irritability seem to come out of nowhere. Others feel physically on edge—heart pounding, hands shaking, unable to breathe deeply.

And yet, no one really talks about it.

We tell new mums to enjoy every moment, to be grateful, to focus on their babies. But what happens when your mind won’t let you? What happens when you love your baby more than anything but still feel gripped by fear?

If you’re struggling with Postpartum Anxiety, know this: you are not alone, and it’s not your fault. Your body and mind have been through something enormous, and there are ways to calm the storm, find balance, and support your recovery.

What Causes Postpartum Anxiety?

Anxiety after birth isn’t just “new mum stress”—it’s deeply physiological, driven by sudden hormonal shifts and nutritional depletion.

The Science Behind the Anxiety

• A Drop in Oestrogen & Progesterone: These hormones plummet within 24 hours of birth, disrupting mood regulation and increasing stress sensitivity.

• A Spike in Cortisol: The demands of caring for a newborn cause cortisol (the stress hormone) to surge, making relaxation feel impossible.

• Nutrient Depletion: Pregnancy and birth drain magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, all crucial for calming the nervous system.

• Sleep Deprivation: A lack of deep, uninterrupted sleep fuels anxiety, making emotional regulation even harder.

This is why Postpartum Anxiety isn’t just “in your head”—it’s a real, biochemical reaction. Your body needs time, nourishment, and support to reset.

How New Mums Can Find Calm & Support

The good news? There are ways to ease Postpartum Anxiety and help your body recover.

1. Nourish Your Nervous System with Herbal Support

Mama Recover is a hormone-balancing, anxiety-soothing herbal infusion designed specifically for postpartum recovery. Unlike traditional teas, it focuses on nourishing the body’s stress response, calming the nervous system, and replenishing key minerals.

Key Herbs for Postpartum Anxiety Relief:

• Oat Straw – High in magnesium and B vitamins, it soothes frazzled nerves and restores calm.

• Holy Basil (Tulsi) – An adaptogen that lowers cortisol, helping the body cope with stress.

• Stinging Nettles – Rich in iron and calcium, both essential for energy and mood stability.

• Raspberry Leaf – Supports hormonal balance and uterine recovery.

• Lady’s Mantle – A traditional remedy for oestrogen regulation and emotional grounding.

• Hibiscus Flower – Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting overall vitality.

Sipping a nourishing postpartum tea daily can help ease tension, reduce stress, and create a much-needed moment of self-care.

2. Regulate Blood Sugar to Stabilise Mood

Blood sugar fluctuations can worsen Postpartum Anxiety, causing energy crashes and heightened stress responses. Focus on:

• Protein with every meal – Eggs, nuts, seeds, or lentils help keep blood sugar stable.

• Healthy fats – Avocados, olive oil, and salmon support hormonal balance and brain function.

• Magnesium-rich foods – Dark leafy greens, bananas, and pumpkin seeds help relax the nervous system.

Small dietary shifts can make a huge difference in emotional stability.

3. Prioritise Deep Rest (Even If Sleep Feels Impossible)

Newborn sleep deprivation is brutal, but rest isn’t just about sleep—it’s about reducing stress load.

Try This:

• Nap if you can, but also rest intentionally – Lie down with your eyes closed, even if you don’t sleep.

• Practice 4-7-8 breathing – Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. This signals safety to the nervous system.

• Use magnesium spray before bed – It relaxes muscles and supports deep sleep.

• Drink a calming tea like Mama Recover – A natural way to unwind before bed.

4. Ask for (and Accept) Support

Postpartum Anxiety thrives in isolation. Society tells us that mothers should be able to “do it all”, but the truth is: we aren’t meant to do this alone.

Ways to Seek Support:

• Tell someone you trust how you’re feeling – Don’t minimise it. Anxiety is real, and you deserve support.

• Consider postpartum therapy or support groups – Speaking with others who understand can be deeply validating.

• Accept help with meals, baby care, or household tasks – You don’t have to be “strong” by doing everything alone.

You Are Not Alone

If you’re struggling with Postpartum Anxiety, I want you to know:

• You are not broken.

• You are not failing.

• This is not forever.

Your body is healing. Your mind is recalibrating. And with the right nourishment, rest, and support, you will feel like yourself again.

If you’re looking for a simple way to start supporting your postpartum recovery, consider adding Mama Recover to your daily routine—a small but powerful step towards feeling calmer, more grounded, and deeply supported.

References

1. O’Hara, M. W., & McCabe, J. E. (2013). Postpartum depression: Current status and future directions. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology.

2. Brummelte, S., & Galea, L. A. (2016). Postpartum depression: Etiology, treatment, and consequences for maternal care. Hormones and Behavior.

3. Kendall-Tackett, K. (2007). A new paradigm for depression in new mothers: The central role of inflammation and how breastfeeding and anti-inflammatory treatments protect maternal mental health. International Breastfeeding Journal.

4. Groer, M. W. (2005). Differences between exclusive breastfeeders, formula-feeders, and controls in immune function, mood, and maternal-infant bonding. Biological Research for Nursing.

HORMONAL & PROUD

Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI is changing the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and even, pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.

We invite you to get to know your body and its cycles better –– to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormones to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. We are here to help with the information, understanding and natural tools to support your body and the emotional process along with it.

DISCLAIMER

The SABI blog and articles are not meant to instruct or advise on medical or health conditions, but to inform. The information and opinions presented here do not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals for your unique situation.