We hear quite a bit about postpartum depression, but there’s a lesser-known chapter of motherhood that deserves more attention: post-weaning depression. If you’ve stopped breastfeeding and suddenly feel emotional or just… off, you’re not imagining things. This is a real experience for many moms, and it’s time we bring it into the light.
What Is Post-Weaning Depression?
Post-weaning depression can hit after you stop breastfeeding, and it’s tied to hormonal changes—like drops in oxytocin (the “feel-good” hormone) and prolactin. These shifts can leave you feeling sad, anxious, or even irritable. And if weaning happens suddenly or before you’re emotionally ready, it can amplify these feelings.
Some common symptoms include:
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling unusually irritable or overwhelmed
- Crying more than usual
- Anxiety or a sense of loss
- Struggling to find joy in things you usually love
Sound familiar? You’re not alone, even if it might feel that way.
Why Don’t We Talk About This?
Part of the problem is that our culture tends to focus on babies (how they eat, how they sleep, how they *everything*). But what about moms? Society rarely acknowledges the emotional toll weaning can take on *you*. Many of us are left thinking, “Why am I feeling this way? Is something wrong with me?”
Spoiler alert: there’s nothing wrong with you. This is a normal, albeit challenging, part of motherhood. But without conversations or support, it’s easy to feel isolated.
What Can You Do?
Here’s the good news: there are ways to ease the transition and start feeling like yourself again.
1. Talk to Someone: Whether it’s a therapist, a friend, or another mom who’s been there, sharing what you’re going through can be a huge relief. Another great resource is the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-TLC-MAMA). You’re not meant to navigate this alone.
2. Go Slow: If possible, wean gradually to give your body (and mind) time to adjust. Slow transitions can help minimize those sudden hormone shifts.
3. Seek Professional Help: If the feelings are intense or sticking around, don’t hesitate to reach out to a doctor or mental health professional. There’s no shame in getting extra support.
4. Lean on Your Village: Find a community of moms who get it. At New Mom School, we talk about these kinds of struggles openly, because every mom deserves to feel supported and validated.
5. Reconnect with Joy: Step out and do things you love, even if staying in feels easier. Whether it’s grabbing coffee at your favorite spot or enjoying a game night with friends, these moments can help you feel like you again.
6. Be Gentle with Yourself: Parenthood is full of surprises, including challenges like post-weaning depression. Give yourself grace, lean on support, and trust that you’re doing your best—even when it doesn’t feel like it.
Raising Awareness for Post-Weaning Depression
At New Mom School, we believe in addressing the unspoken challenges of motherhood. Through education, community, and expert-led classes, we help moms navigate every stage of their journey. Recognizing the realities of post-weaning depression is part of our commitment to fostering empathy, understanding, and resources for new moms.
If you or someone you know is experiencing post-weaning depression, remember: You are not alone. There’s strength in seeking help, and together, we can rewrite the narrative around maternal mental health.
Learn more about our programs and how we can support you in this transition by visiting New Mom School. Let’s tackle these challenges together, one step at a time.