Every woman in their lifetime plays different roles, but the chapter of motherhood is often seen as the most beautiful and amazing. It is filled with the joy of a newborn sweet and gentle lullabies. Still, when these soft emotional moments are hit by anger, confusion, and guilt arise, overpowering the warm feeling of being a parent. But why does this happen? Is it even real, or is it just some made-up thing?
Well, this sudden burst of anger, frustration, and irritation after giving birth to a child is real. Still, it is often overlooked as people say it is because of hormonal changes, responsibilities, etc, which is not right. This raw emotional experience that a new mother faces shouldn’t be neglected. It should be talked about and discussed.
It is not just being cranky or caused by changes a woman undergoes. It is an overwhelming sensation that can make a woman lose control. So, without making a mom feel lonely and judging her, let’s understand what postpartum rage is, its signs, and coping strategies.
What is Postpartum Rage?
Postpartum rage is an intense and often uncontrollable feeling of impatience, agitation, rage, and anger experienced by some new parents. It is persistent and overwhelming. The reason behind such rage is disrupted sleep, never-ending needs, your recovering body, changes in hormone levels, the transformation of your identity, continuous mood swings, and more.
Feelings like lack of support, lack of knowledge, and lack of understanding can also result in postpartum anger. It is severe, all-consuming, and constant and can last for more than two weeks after childbirth.
If you think you or your loved one is having postpartum anger, check the triggers and symptoms.
Key Triggers of Postpartum Rage
1. Hormonal Changes: The level of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, impacting mood regulation.
2. Sleep Deprivation: Caring for a newborn is not easy. Often, the first thing that gets compromised while doing so is sleep. Lack of sleep causes irritability.
3. Identity Transformation: Adjusting to a new role as a parent can be emotionally taxing.
4. Lack of Support: Feeling isolated or unsupported can increase negative emotions.
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth shows that new mothers who experience high levels of stress and insufficient support are more likely to report feelings of anger or rage during the postpartum period (BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 2018).
What are the Symptoms of Postpartum Rage?
Postpartum anger ranges from mild to severe. Hence, symptoms also vary. You may feel angry, impatient, and sad at the same time. These symptoms increase when the baby does not sleep, keeps crying, or when you have to change the fourth diaper in a row.
For most new moms, postpartum anger is the strong moment wherein you never know what’s going to happen next. You may start feeling tired, exhausted, irritated, and want to simultaneously hold and love your newborn. Some of the common signs of postpartum rage are:
● Irritation
● Impatience
● Restlessness
● Anger
● Rage
● Sweating
● Screaming
● Want to punch things
● Crying
● Unable to sleep
● Worthlessness
● Feeling guilty
● Lethargy
● Unable to focus or concentrate
● Thoughts of suicide
● Self-harm
Causes of Postpartum Rage
Causes of postpartum anger are the same as postpartum depression, which include hormonal changes, history of depression, lack of support, and lack of sleep. However, psychologists and researchers are not sure if parents are more likely to experience depression than anger or anxiety after giving birth. In a study published by BMC Pregnancy, I found that certain factors are related to anger during the postpartum period:
1. Deprived sleep
2. Financial stress
3. Needs of the baby
4. Lack of support
Treatment Options for Postpartum Rage
If the anger you feel is constant and it is like this for more than two weeks, it’s time you make the right decision for yourself and your baby. See a therapist to get help, make some lifestyle changes, and go along with medication. Look for support and enjoy those lovely moments with your newborn.
Self-Help Tips for Overcoming Postpartum Rage
Along with therapy, there are some help tips that you can start following to control your anger. When the moments where you are unable to control the rage or feel exhausted, the below-mentioned self-help tips help overcome postpartum rage:
● Join a support group of new moms
● Remind yourself that you are doing your best
● Ask for help or support from your partner
● Get proper rest
● Stay active (physically and mentally)
Frequently Asked Questions
It varies by individual. Early intervention can shorten its duration.
While less common, partners may experience mood changes due to stress or lack of sleep.
Postpartum rage is a complex and often misunderstood aspect of postpartum mental health. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options is the first step toward managing it effectively. With the right combination of professional support, lifestyle adjustments, and self-help strategies, navigating these challenges and finding joy in the postpartum journey is possible.
If you or someone you know is struggling with postpartum rage, don’t hesitate to seek help. For further reading and resources, visit Postpartum Support International.
Having symptoms of postpartum rage is not something unusual. It is quite common, and you need to work on your anger to raise your newborn positively. With the help of therapy and coping tips, you can overcome postpartum rage. I hope this blog helps you with a detailed overview of postpartum rage. Comment down your views on experiencing postpartum rage. For more such content, connect with us on all social media platforms.
Happy Parenting!
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