Bringing a new life into the world is often described as a joyful, transformative experience. While this is true for many, it’s equally true that pregnancy, childbirth, and the months that follow can be filled with emotional, physical, and mental challenges. These challenges fall under the umbrella of perinatal mental health, which refers to a person’s emotional well-being during pregnancy and up to one year after birth.
Unfortunately, perinatal mental health struggles are common and often misunderstood. Understanding the signs, knowing when to seek help, and recognizing that you are not alone are key steps toward wellness.
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What Is Perinatal Mental Health?
Perinatal mental health covers a wide range of conditions that can affect parents before and after giving birth. The most well-known is postpartum depression, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Others include:
– Perinatal anxiety disorders, such as constant worry or racing thoughts
– Postpartum depression, which can cause feelings of sadness, guilt, or disconnection from the baby
– Postpartum OCD, often showing up as intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors
– Postpartum psychosis (rare but serious), involving hallucinations, delusions, or confusion
These conditions are not a reflection of a parent’s love for their child. They are medical issues—real, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of.
If you’re searching for postpartum depression therapy near Palos Heights, Illinois, or Northwest Indiana, or support for perinatal anxiety, know that help is available.
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Why Perinatal Mental Health Matters
When left unaddressed, perinatal mental health concerns can affect both the parent and the child. Parents may feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unable to bond with their baby. Infants may pick up on this stress, and the parent-child relationship can be impacted.
But here’s the hopeful truth: early support and treatment work. With the right care, parents can recover fully and enjoy a healthier, more connected experience with their baby.
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Common Signs to Look Out For
If you’re expecting or recently gave birth, it’s important to pay attention to how you’re feeling emotionally, not just physically. Some signs that you might be struggling include:
– Feeling persistently sad, hopeless, or “not yourself”
– Excessive worry, panic, or racing thoughts
– Trouble sleeping or eating—even when the baby is resting
– Withdrawing from loved ones
– Feeling detached from your baby or overwhelmed by guilt
– Thoughts of harming yourself or fears of harming your baby
If you notice these symptoms lasting more than two weeks, it’s time to reach out for maternal mental health resources in Illinois or Indiana.
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Breaking the Stigma
One of the biggest challenges with perinatal mental health is stigma. Many new moms feel pressure to appear “happy” or to handle everything perfectly. Admitting that you’re struggling can feel like failure—but in reality, reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
Talking openly about perinatal mental health helps normalize these experiences and encourages others to seek support, too.
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Where to Find Support
You don’t have to go through this alone. Here are some ways to find help:
– Talk to your healthcare provider about how you’re feeling
– Seek therapy with Victress, A Wellness Center for Women
– Join support groups for new or expectant parents
– Reach out to trusted family or friends who can provide emotional and practical support
If you ever experience thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, call 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline immediately.
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Final Thoughts
Perinatal mental health is just as important as physical health during pregnancy and postpartum. By talking about it openly, recognizing the signs, and seeking support, parents can take steps toward healing and thriving in their journey through parenthood.
If you’re struggling, know this: you are not alone, and help is available. Reaching out is the first step toward feeling better—for you and for your baby.
At Victress, A Wellness Center for Women, we are here to walk alongside you through every stage of this journey. Our compassionate team specializes in perinatal and postpartum mental health support in Palos Heights, Illinois, and Northwest Indiana. If you’d like to learn more or schedule an appointment, visit www.victresswellness.com or call us at 708-428-2527.