Perinatal Mental Health
You Are Not Alone
Becoming a parent can be one of the most beautiful and transformative experiences of your life, but it can also bring unexpected emotional and mental health challenges. If you're navigating feelings of anxiety, sadness, or stress during pregnancy or after childbirth, know that you are not alone. Many parents face these feelings, and what you're going through is not uncommon.
​
Perinatal Mental Health Matters
Perinatal mental health concerns, including Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), are more common than many people realize. It’s estimated that 1 in 5 people experience mental health challenges during pregnancy or in the first year after childbirth. These can include anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, and overwhelming feelings of isolation, among others.
​
PMADs don’t only affect mothers—fathers and partners can also experience these conditions. Studies show that up to 1 in 10 new fathers experience symptoms of depression or anxiety during the perinatal period. The transition to fatherhood can bring its own challenges, including stress, feelings of inadequacy, and pressure to be the “perfect” parent. If you're a father feeling overwhelmed, it's important to recognize that these feelings are valid and part of a broader experience shared by many.
While these struggles can feel isolating, they don’t mean you're failing or that something is “wrong” with you. In fact, experiencing these feelings is often a normal response to the monumental life change you're going through. That said, you don’t have to go through it alone, and help is available.
​
You're Not Alone – Healing is Possible
While perinatal challenges are widespread, the good news is that they can improve with the right support. Therapy can offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to process your feelings, manage the overwhelm, and develop coping skills. Together, we can work on recognizing the unique challenges you're facing and find ways to navigate them in a compassionate, healing manner.
It is possible to heal, regain your sense of self, and find joy and connection in your journey as a parent. With time, support, and the right tools, you can move forward feeling stronger, more balanced, and more connected with yourself and your baby.
​
How Therapy Can Help
In therapy, we’ll work together to create a plan tailored to your needs. This may include:
-
Exploring and understanding your emotions during the perinatal period
-
Developing tools to manage anxiety, depression, or stress
-
Navigating the pressures and expectations of parenthood
-
Finding ways to reconnect with yourself and your partner
-
Addressing past trauma or experiences that may affect your current mental health
​​
You Deserve Support
If you're struggling, it's okay to ask for help. There is no “right” way to feel during this time—whatever you are feeling is valid, and together we can work to bring you a sense of peace and healing. Your well-being matters, and seeking support shows strength and courage. You are deserving of care, compassion, and the tools to thrive during this transformative time.