All the facts, and helpful tips for coping with pregnancy depression
A myth persists that pregnancy depression cannot exist because pregnancy is protective against low mood. If you are reading this you have probably experienced the reverse to be true, as I did when I was pregnant. In fact, studies have shown that rates of symptoms suggestive of depression are actually higher amongst pregnant women than non-pregnant women. Pregnancy depression has been found to be more common than post partum depression.
Unfortunately the fallacy that all pregnant women must be in a unique state of unparalleled bliss is still widely subscribed to by many, even within the medical profession. Perhaps the idea of an unhappy pregnancy is uncomfortable for most of us and, therefore, a difficult thing to talk about openly. As a consequence, information and practical help for women who find themselves low in mood, mentally stressed and anxious in pregnancy can be difficult to find.
Many women who experience symptoms of low mood in pregnancy are told by well-meaning friends and family, and sometimes even a midwife or doctor, "It's just hormones!". But if you do have depression, even mild depression, in pregnancy, then 'just riding it out' is not a helpful way of dealing with it.
A growing body of research evidence suggests that mental stress experienced by a pregnant mother can affect her unborn baby and result in health and emotional consequences for baby that persist into adulthood. This is why Mother and Infant mental health workers now know that it is important to actively treat depression arising in pregnancy. The question this website is primarily concerned with answering is 'HOW does one treat depression and anxiety in pregnancy in a way that is both effective and safe?' Perhaps that is the question you were wanting to have answered when you found Pregancy Depression Help.
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