Pregnancy is usually a time of joy and excitement, but some expecting mothers can face unexpected emotional challenges. Perinatal depression is a serious condition that affects many women during pregnancy, yet it often goes unnoticed. It is important to understand that perinatal depression help can be found outside of the doctor’s office and in your loved ones’ support.
This blog aims to explain perinatal depression and help family and friends support their loved ones through this tough time.
Understanding Perinatal Depression
Perinatal depression, also known as antenatal depression, happens during pregnancy. It’s different from normal mood swings and includes feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness that don’t go away.
Research shows that about 7% of pregnant women experience clinical depression during pregnancy. This condition can affect both the mother and the baby, so it’s important to recognize and address it quickly.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs of depression during pregnancy are similar to those in other people. But there are some unique signs to watch for, including:
- Feeling very worried about your baby
- Low self-esteem, like feeling you’re not good enough to be a parent
- Not enjoying activities that you usually enjoy
- Not feeling better even when others try to reassure you
- Not following prenatal care instructions well
- Smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs
- Not gaining enough weight because you’re not eating well
- Having thoughts about hurting yourself
If you experience self-harming thoughts or notice them in a pregnant mom, immediately call, text, or chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
How Family and Friends Can Help
Encourage Screening for Perinatal Depression
Screening for perinatal depression during pregnancy is very important to get perinatal depression help early. Mental health providers use special questionnaires during check-ups to find signs of depression.
It’s good to encourage your loved one to talk honestly with their mental health providers about how they feel.
There are different tools to screen for depression in pregnant women, including the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). These forms help mental health providers understand how serious the depression is and decide on the best treatment.
Encourage Professional Help
It’s very important to encourage your loved one to seek help from a professional mental health provider. Some women might be afraid to admit they need perinatal depression help because they think people will judge them.
Remind your loved one that asking for help shows strength, not weakness.
Be a Good Listener
One of the best things you can do is to listen to someone without judging them. Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can really help a person who is feeling sad or worried because of perinatal depression.
Validate Her Feelings
Make sure to let your loved one know that their feelings are real and important. You can say things like “I know this is hard for you” or “Your feelings matter.” This can help them feel understood and supported.
Assist with Daily Tasks
Offering to help with everyday chores can reduce some of the stress your loved one might be feeling. Whether it’s cooking a meal, cleaning the house, or doing errands, your help can make a big difference.
Accompany Your Loved One to Appointments
Offer to go with your loved one to doctor visits or mental health appointments. Having someone there can make these experiences less scary.
Create a Supportive Environment
Make your home a place where they feel supported and cared for. This means being kind and patient and encouraging them to eat healthy meals and exercise regularly.
Educate Yourself
Learn more about perinatal depression, so you in turn can help better. The National Institute of Mental Health has a lot of information that can help you understand what a woman with perinatal depression is going through.
Foster Open Communication
Encourage your loved one to talk openly and honestly about their feelings and experiences. Make sure they know it’s okay to share what they’re going through with you.
Be Patient
Remember that getting better from perinatal depression takes time. Be patient and keep supporting them, even on the tough days.
Help Them Stay Connected
Maintaining social connections can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation in pregnant women. Encourage your loved one dealing with perinatal depression to stay connected with friends and family, even if it’s through virtual means.
Screening for Perinatal Depression in Arizona
Perinatal depression is a serious condition, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
At Balanced Mental Health of Arizona, we offer compassionate, comprehensive mental health care tailored to meet your unique needs during pregnancy. Our experienced professionals are dedicated to providing the support and treatment necessary to ensure a healthy and fulfilling pregnancy journey.
For more information about screening for perinatal depression, call today at (623) 349-1711 or request an appointment using our online form. We look forward to serving you!
