While pregnancy can be viewed as a beautiful gift of life, it is important to remember that the
journey to becoming a parent is not always full of sunshine and rainbows. From maintaining a
proper diet to preparing the baby’s new room, pregnancy introduces various stress factors,
some of which affect mental health. Supporting good perinatal mental health is a priority that
shouldn’t be glazed over—raising a happy and healthy baby is only possible if parents have the
mental capacity to do so.
Impacts of Poor Perinatal Mental Health
Perinatal depression and anxiety have been linked to an increased difficulty in forming a secure
attachment style, as early bonding is crucial for the baby’s emotional and social development.
Babies may also have difficulty regulating their own emotions, which can affect their ability to
self-soothe and manage stress. Early difficulties can persist into later development, leading to a
higher risk for behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, aggression, and emotional instability.
Children born to parents who struggled with perinatal mental health may be at a higher risk for
developing mood and anxiety disorders as well.
Early identification and support for parents experiencing mental health challenges during
pregnancy and the postpartum period are crucial for mitigating potential impacts on the baby’s
development and well-being.
Supporting Perinatal Mental Health
What’s interesting about perinatal mental health is that available support is relatively similar to
your typical mental health support systems. Evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive
behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) challenge thoughts and explore new
ways of thinking and behaving during this everchanging period of life. Numerous studies have
reported significant reductions in depressive symptoms of mothers who participated in CBT
interventions. When treated throughout pregnancy, these interventions have been shown to
pose a 36% reduction in risk of postpartum depressive episodes, suggesting that preventative
care is essential.
Starting therapy may seem daunting, but you don’t have to face these challenges alone. With
online counseling services, support is just a click away. Whether you’re juggling a busy
schedule, living in a remote area, or simply prefer the convenience of virtual sessions, online
counseling offers a flexible and accessible way to prioritize your mental health. Rebound Total
Health offers perinatal therapy services to help you explore and manage pregnancy and
postpartum symptoms so you can bounce back to your best self.