When you are pregnant, a lot of people give you guidance on what to eat, what kind of exercise to do and how best to take care of yourself. It is essential that you do all of this, get regular medical check-ups done and ensure you get all the nutrients. However, a very important and often ignored aspect during pregnancy is the mental health of the mother.

We need to acknowledge the fact that women who are pregnant go through hormonal changes and mental stress. It is necessary to take preventive measures to stay happy and mentally healthy throughout the pregnancy.

Here are 5 things you need to know about mental health during pregnancy:

1. Pre-Baby Anxiety

Pregnant mothers often have a lot to worry about. It can be related to labour pain, expecting a baby, making life adjustments and so on. However, if you find that the anxiety is getting so bad, that it affects you on a daily basis, it is a good time to take a break and relax. Also, don’t be afraid to talk to someone for help.

 

 

2.Monitoring your emotions

Mood swings are common during pregnancy mostly due to the hormonal changes and the anxiety of all that is happening. However, if you find it getting out of hand, it would be a great idea to write down your emotions and monitor your mood swings. Doing this gives you control over your own emotions and helps you become more aware.

 

 

3.You are not alone

If you find yourself getting stressed, depressed or highly anxious – remember that you are not alone! It is completely normal to experience these emotions during a pregnancy. If possible, try to join support groups or speak to other expecting/new mothers to understand the journey of pregnancy better.

 

4.Getting help is important

Mental health during pregnancy is often neglected because there are more obvious physical medical needs that need to be attended to first. However, ensure that you understand that staying mentally fit is really important not just for you but for your baby as well! Post pregnancy is also a very stressful time and as an expecting mother, it would do you a world of good to start paying attention to your mental health from the very beginning.

5.Take small steps

Take small steps that will help you feel better and stay mentally strong – it does not always mean therapy or prescription drugs. It could be something as simple as doing more physical activity, meeting friends or simply getting fresh air!

References

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Pregnancy-and-your-mental-healthhttp://www.health.com/depression/postpartum-depression-often-begins-during-pregnancy-a-new-study-finds