Understanding Colic in Newborns and Its Impact on Maternal Mental Health
“I feel like I might be going insane”, my best friend told me through tears. Her newborn had barely stopped crying and was now, once again inconsolable. “I’m not cut out for this. How did you do this?” At this point she was sobbing. It was clear to me that while I had already survived the newborn phase twice, I really had not gone through what she was going through. That’s because she was one of the unlucky parents whose baby has colic.
What Is Colic in Newborns?
Colic in newborns is a common yet deeply challenging experience for many families. It is characterized by episodes of intense, inconsolable crying that last more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for at least three consecutive weeks. These crying spells typically begin between 2–6 weeks of age and can persist until 3–4 months, sometimes longer.
Possible Causes of Colic
Although colic is a well-recognized condition, its exact cause remains unclear. Researchers believe possible factors include immature digestion in newborns, an underdeveloped nervous system, or heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli. While it can be distressing to witness, colic is a temporary phase and is not a sign that parents are doing anything wrong.
How Colic Can Affect Postpartum Mental Health
While colic itself is not harmful to the baby’s physical health, its impact on maternal mental health and overall parental well-being can be significant. Caring for a colicky baby often means navigating constant crying, disrupted sleep, and emotional exhaustion.
Prolonged exposure to inconsolable crying can:
Elevate stress hormones
Intensify feelings of helplessness or frustration
Create a sense of blame and shame for mothers, falsely blaming themselves for the condition
Increase risk for postpartum depression and anxiety
Create a sense of isolation from friends, family, and community
For many mothers, especially first-time parents, a colicky baby can lead to self-doubt and fears about their ability to care for their child. For those who lack sufficient support from friends or family or worse, those whose ‘support system’ comes across as judgmental, the damage to mom’s confidence and mental health can be seriously impacted.
Coping Strategies for Parents of Colicky Newborns
If you are parenting a baby with colic, it’s important to have strategies that protect your emotional and physical well-being:
Share caregiving responsibilities: When possible, alternate shifts with a partner, family member, or trusted friend to prevent burnout.
Use safe soothing techniques: Rocking, white noise, gentle motion, and swaddling can sometimes help—but it’s equally important to recognize when your baby may not be soothed and not to blame yourself. Remind yourself that this is not your fault and it will pass.
Take breaks when overwhelmed: It is safe to place your baby in their crib for a few minutes while you step away to breathe and reset.
Seek professional support: Speaking with a postpartum therapist or new parent support group can provide guidance and reassurance.
Remind yourself this phase will end: Colic is temporary, even though the days (and nights) may feel endless.
When to Seek Help
If you notice persistent sadness, irritability, or intrusive thoughts, it may be time to reach out to a healthcare provider. Postpartum mood and anxiety disorders are treatable, and early intervention can make a significant difference in your recovery and your relationship with your baby.
Key Takeaways for Parents Navigating Colic
Colic is not your fault — it is a developmental phase that will resolve.
Support systems are essential to protect your mental health during this time.
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Prioritizing your emotional well-being benefits both you and your baby.
If you’re in Ontario and navigating the challenges of postpartum mental health while caring for a baby with colic, our team of therapists and perinatal specialists is here to help. We provide compassionate, evidence-based support for parents during the most demanding early months of life with a newborn.