Postnatal Rage – You’re Not Alone

Let’s be real. No one warns you about the rage.

They prep you for the sleepless nights. They mention the crying (yours and the baby’s). But that bubbling, blood-boiling fury that explodes when the dummy won’t stay in, or your partner dares to breathe too loudly? That’s the side of postnatal life no one talks about. Until now.

What Is Postnatal Rage?

Postnatal rage is exactly what it sounds like: intense, unexpected anger that shows up in the months after having a baby. It’s not just feeling irritated. This is full-body fury. Like someone lit a fuse inside you and you have no idea where the matches came from.

And no, you’re not just “hormonal” or “overreacting.” This is a real and recognised experience, often linked to:

• Sleep deprivation (hello, 3am feeds)
• Hormonal shifts (your oestrogen and progesterone just dropped off a cliff)
• Mental load overload (planning feeds, naps, appointments, meals, laundry… all of it)
• Unprocessed birth trauma or anxiety
• Feeling invisible, unsupported, or just totally touched out

It’s not just in your head. It’s in your body, your brain, and your burnt-out soul.

You’re Not Broken. You’re Burnt Out.

You might find yourself screaming into a pillow. Snapping at your partner. Slamming cupboard doors because someone left the nappy bag empty (again). And then the guilt rolls in. Because you’re meant to be soaking in baby cuddles and counting tiny toes, right?

But here’s the truth: rage is often a red flag from your nervous system saying, “Hey, I’m not okay.”

It’s not a moral failing. It’s not because you’re a bad mum. It’s because you’re carrying too much, on too little rest, with not enough support.

What Helps When Rage Hits?

There’s no magic cure (sorry), but there are things that can make a difference. Think of these like emotional circuit breakers.

• Name it out loud. Say: “I feel rage.” Labeling the feeling helps bring your rational brain back online.
• Create a safe release. Punch a pillow. Scream into the car stereo. Journal with zero filter. Rage needs somewhere to go.
• Reset your nervous system. Cold water on your wrists. A walk outside. Slow, deep breathing (even if it’s through gritted teeth).
• Talk to someone. Your GP, maternal health nurse, or a trusted friend. If rage is constant or scaring you, professional support is key. You may be dealing with postnatal anxiety or depression, and you deserve help.

You Deserve Support, Not Shame

Here’s what we’re not going to do: pretend this is just part of the “baby blues” and push through with a fake smile. You are allowed to feel what you feel. And you are allowed to ask for help.

If your rage feels unmanageable, intrusive, or like it’s getting worse, speak to a healthcare provider. You might be screened for postnatal depression, anxiety, or PTSD, and that’s a good thing. Because diagnosis doesn’t label you, it unlocks support.

Try these resources in Australia:

• PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) – 1300 726 306
• Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636
• Your local GP or maternal child health nurse

You’re Still a Good Mum

Even when you yell. Even when you lose it. Even when the rage scares you.

You are doing your best in a brutally hard season. You’re allowed to feel everything. And you’re not alone in this.

Let’s keep talking about postnatal rage. Let’s take the shame out of it, and replace it with honesty, support, and maybe a giant group scream into the void (kidding… mostly).

Ever felt like you could’ve set fire to the washing pile just by looking at it? Tell us what helped you through postnatal rage in the comments. Your story might be exactly what another mum needs to hear.