We asked Previa Alliance moms and allies to share their experiences with mental health challenges during pregnancy or postpartum.
Listen to More Stories and Join the Conversation.
Together, we can save a lot of heartache and suffering.
And possibly a life.
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) include a range of disorders and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and psychosis. These disorders and symptoms can occur during pregnancy and/or up to a year after giving birth (postpartum). If left untreated, these disorders can have harmful and long-lasting impacts on the mother, her baby, the family, and society.
We asked Whitney, our maternal mental health therapist, to summarize the signs and symptoms of a few of these disorders.
• History of Depression and/or Anxiety
• Lack of Support and/ or Resources
• Family History of Mental Illness
• History of physical and/or sexual abuse
• Unwanted and/or unplanned pregnancy
• Currently under stress
• Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness
• Crying; constant worrying
• Pounding heart; difficulty taking a deep breath, can’t sleep/eat
• Feelings of rage, anger; having scary or unwanted thoughts
• Let your partner, family and friends know how you’re feeling
• Talk to your provider and discuss treatment options
• Talk to a mental health therapist/ counselor
If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby,
go to the Emergency Room or call 911.
We want moms to know that perinatal mood disorders are common and treatable! It is normal to have feelings of sadness and anxiety while also being excited and hopeful when pregnant or holding your newborn. Here are ways you can support and protect your mental well-being.
What friends or family members are you closest to? Talking with a friend is sometimes enough to help put things into perspective.
Go for a walk. Take a nap. Get a foot rub. When you start to feel overwhelmed with all the changes, restore balance by taking extra care of yourself.
When stress or anxious thoughts cause your chest to constrict, try box breathing.
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