On the Journey to Parenthood

Getting pregnant means your family is expanding with a new bundle of joy. Whether you’re a first-time mum or a seasoned veteran, it brings as many challenges as it does happiness. Everyone congratulates you and shares their joy. But there’s something not many people talk about enough: perinatal mental health.

Up to 1 in 5 new mums, and some dads too, face serious mood or anxiety challenges during pregnancy or after childbirth.

Perinatal mental health struggles can show up in different forms, and they are more common than you might think:

Depression: Feeling down, sad, or empty much of the time; losing interest in things you used to enjoy; or struggling to bond with your baby.

Anxiety: Constant, intense worry about your baby’s health, having panic attacks, or feeling on edge almost all the time.

PTSD: Reliving a traumatic birth experience through flashbacks or nightmares and avoiding anything that reminds you of it.

OCD: Having repeated, unwanted, and upsetting thoughts (often about harm coming to the baby) and feeling driven to perform certain actions, like checking on them excessively, for temporary relief.

Postpartum Psychosis: This is very rare, but it is serious. It can involve extreme confusion, hallucinations, or paranoia. This is a medical emergency, and it is crucial to get help immediately.

These challenges can affect anyone. However, factors like a personal or family history of mental health concerns, a traumatic birth experience, or a lack of support can increase the risk. On the other hand, a strong support system and regular check-ins with your healthcare provider can make a world of difference.

How to Care for Yourself and Support Others

Here are some simple, practical ways to protect your wellbeing and support someone you care about.

· Learn the Signs Early: Understanding these conditions before the baby arrives helps you recognise if something does not feel right.

· Stay Connected: Lean on family, friends, or your partner. Do not be afraid to ask for help with night feeds or just to take a quiet break.

· Attend Your Check-ups: Postpartum appointments are not just for the baby. Be open and honest with your doctor or midwife about how you are feeling, emotionally and mentally.

· Remember Partners Matter Too: Dads and partners can also experience perinatal depression and anxiety. Encourage open conversation and check in on their wellbeing.

· Keep It Simple: Focus on the basics. Eat nutritious meals when you can, nap whenever the baby sleeps, and get outside for a short walk. These small acts of self-care add up.

· Find Your Community: Join a local parent group or explore trusted online spaces like Postpartum Support International. Sharing your experience can help you feel less alone.

When to Seek Immediate Help

It is vital to reach out for help right away if you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, hear or see things others do not, feel severely confused, or cannot sleep for days despite being exhausted. Please do not hesitate. Call your doctor, a crisis line, or emergency services immediately. Getting help can be lifesaving.

You Are Not Alone

Remember, you are not alone, and there is no shame in struggling. Safe and effective treatments, from counselling to medication, are available. Getting support early changes everything for you and your baby.

If you or someone you know is having a hard time, please remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Let's work together to normalise getting support!