The period surrounding pregnancy and early parenthood is often described as one of the happiest times in a person’s life. For many people, though, it is also one of the most emotionally demanding. Feelings of anxiety, low mood, confusion, or disconnection are more common than is often acknowledged, and they deserve to be taken seriously.
Ante-natal mental health refers to emotional and psychological wellbeing during pregnancy. Post-natal mental health covers the period after birth. Both can bring significant challenges, and both are something therapy can help with.
What people experience
During pregnancy and early parenthood, people sometimes experience:
- Persistent worry about the pregnancy, birth, or their ability to parent
- Low mood, tearfulness, or a sense of numbness
- Feelings of isolation, even when surrounded by support
- Difficulty bonding with a baby, which can bring significant shame
- Intrusive thoughts that feel frightening and out of character
- Post-natal depression, which can affect both mothers and fathers
- Birth trauma or a complicated emotional response to the birth experience
Post-natal depression affects around one in ten women after childbirth, and is also experienced by some fathers and partners. It is not a sign of weakness or a reflection of how much you love your child. It is a recognised condition that responds well to support.
How therapy can help
At Inner Space, we offer a confidential, non-judgmental space to explore whatever you are carrying. Many new and expecting parents find that the transition to parenthood stirs up earlier experiences, including their own childhood, previous losses, or relationship difficulties. Therapy can help make sense of these layers.
Our work in this area connects closely with grief and loss, anxiety, and relationship support. We work with individuals and couples.
The NCT and PANDAS Foundation both offer additional information and peer support for those affected by perinatal mental health difficulties.