What is perinatal mental health? 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 wellbeing 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 behavioural 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.
What Is Perinatal Mental Health And How Do You Support It?
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 the risk of postpartum depressive episodes, suggesting that preventative care is essential.
Getting Support And Perinatal Mental Health Therapy With Rebound Total Health
Starting therapy may seem daunting, but you don’t have to face these challenges alone. With online counselling 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 counselling 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.
Book a free consultation to get back to feeling like yourself – and loving the Holiday season.
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