Pregnant and Postpartum Mental Health Challenges and Risk Factors

Becoming a mom brings changes which can trigger struggles with pregnancy and postpartum mental health. There are a variety of risk factors that can contribute to depression. I experienced depression for the first time during pregnancy, and it completely took me by surprise. Here are some risk factors that may contribute to depression during pregnancy and postpartum mental health.

Sometimes Depression Feels Like a Cage

Depression feels like a mental cage.

It’s frustrating when my brain keeps me from doing things I know I can do. I feel like a cheetah trapped in a cage when I could be running up to 90mph if given the chance. But I am not free.

Why People With Depression Don’t Reach Out For Help

“Reach out for help.” This is such a simple phrase. But putting those words into action feels anything but simple when you are in the throes of depression. I have struggled with depression and anxiety for years and I know that I should tell someone when I’m struggling and reach out for help. But there is a huge mental block that often prevents me from doing so. And it’s not for the reasons that you might think.

Without Modern Medicine, Would I Be Here Today?

I wouldn’t be a mother without modern medicine. I experienced perinatal depression during my first pregnancy. I felt fatigued, sad, and unable to do many normal activities. I couldn’t see a future where I could be happy. My husband convinced me to talk to my doctor, and after a lot of resistance, I finally did.

Prenatal Anxiety Nearly Broke Me, but It Also Helped Me Find My Voice

I didn’t realize the intrusive thooughts I had about my baby dying were because of prenatal anxiety. I knew that something was really wrong, but advocating for myself and learning to speak up more loudly was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Maternal mental health isn’t just about post-partum depression. Some women struggle with antepartum/prenatal depression, prenatal anxiety, and other disorders. You are not alone.

I Feared My Son Was Going to Get Hurt, but Realized the Thoughts Were Due to Anxiety

You never know when anxiety will hit you. Today it hit me at preschool drop-off and it took everything in me to leave him there. My brain was telling me that he was in danger. And I had to actively disregard that information when my instinct was pulling me to do the exact opposite. But I realized these were thoughts due to anxiety. This is my daily battle.