Is it Worry or Anxiety? A Guide for Moms

Sound Familiar, Mama?

Did I remember to schedule that pediatrician appointment? Do I need to get more bananas at the store? Do we need more diapers? Should I get the same size or size up? Why does dinner feel like such a battle every night? Shouldn’t I feel happier right now?

If your mind feels like it’s running on a constant loop of worries—big and small—you’re not alone. Motherhood has a way of multiplying those anxious thoughts, especially in postpartum and early motherhood.

Summary: What You’ll Learn in This Post

This guide helps you understand the difference between everyday worry and anxiety—especially as a mom. You’ll learn common signs of anxiety, questions to ask yourself, and how therapy can help you feel less consumed by the mental load.

50,000+ Thoughts per Day (Yes, Really)

From googling rashes to replaying something you said at that playdate, motherhood fuels nonstop mental chatter. Studies show we have tens of thousands of thoughts daily—and for moms, that number feels doubled.

While some level of worry is normal, especially when you’re responsible for little humans, it’s important to know when that worry crosses the line into anxiety.

A study looking at what we worry about found that 91% of our worries never even happen. The nine percent of worries that do happen, the outcome was better than imaged about one third of the time. Worrying is a part of daily life. So, how do we know if our worrying is too much or if it is something more, like anxiety?

Worry vs. Anxiety: What’s the Difference?

So how can you tell if it’s typical mom worry or something more? The difference is in how much it impacts your daily life.

Ask yourself:

• Are your worries constant—about your kids, your relationship, your house, your body, your future?

• Does it feel hard to sleep because your mind just won’t stop?

• Do you avoid situations—like social gatherings or even playdates—because it feels too overwhelming?

• Do you catch yourself catastrophizing—always fearing the worst?

• Do you feel constantly on edge, like you can’t relax even when everything seems “fine”?

If you’re nodding yes, there’s a good chance you’re experiencing anxiety—not just “mom worry.” And trust me, you’re not broken. So many mothers feel this way—but it doesn’t have to be your normal.

The Cycle of Anxiety in Motherhood

Anxiety is sneaky. The more anxious you feel, the more anxious you get about feeling anxious. Suddenly you’re questioning why you can’t just “get it together,” and the spiral keeps going. You might even feel guilt or shame for struggling when “you’re supposed to be happy.”

Sound familiar? You’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. Our brains aren’t wired for the pressure modern motherhood places on us.

How Therapy Can Help Moms with Anxiety

Therapy creates space for you to name what’s really going on beneath the surface. Together, you and your therapist can untangle the thought patterns, explore your triggers, and build tools to regulate your nervous system— without adding another thing to your to-do list.

Whether it’s perfectionism, intrusive thoughts, or the impossible mental load, therapy helps you step out of survival mode and start feeling like yourself again.

Key Takeaways for Moms Wondering if It’s Anxiety

• Worry is normal, but if it feels constant and overwhelming, it might be anxiety.

• Anxiety shows up in your body, your sleep, your relationships, and your patience.

• You don’t have to manage this alone. Therapy can help.

• There is a way to feel lighter, calmer, and more connected—to yourself and your family.

If you’re ready to explore support, I offer free 15-minute consultations. Let’s see if working together feels like the right fit.

Disclaimer: This is in not a replacement for a therapeutic relationship or mental health services. This is for educational purposes only and should be in used only in conjunction in working with a licensed mental health professional. If you are looking for a local professional in California, feel free to use the contact me to request an appointment or search Psychology Today for local therapists in your area.

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