Depression and Anxiety in Pregnancy
It is normal to feel down one day and better the next. This is a challenging time. There is nothing wrong with feeling emotional. Your body and life are going through many changes. Feeling sad, irritable, hopeless or worried more often than not can be signs of depression or anxiety.
Common Signs of Perinatal or Postpartum Depression
- Withdrawal from family and friends.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy.
- Constant sad, anxious or “empty” mood.
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions.
- Difficulty sleeping even when baby is sleeping, awakening early in the morning or oversleeping.
- Abnormal appetite, weight changes or both.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
- Trouble coping with daily tasks.
- Trouble bonding or forming an emotional attachment with the new baby.
- Lasting doubts about the ability to care for the new baby.
- Thoughts of death or suicide. If you have these thoughts, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for help 24/7.
Did You Know?
There are 24/7 national hotlines available that provide free and confidential emotional support.
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988.
- Postpartum Support International: call or text “HELP” to 1-800-944-4773.
- National crisis text line: 741741 text "HOME" if in crisis.
Almost everyone feels overwhelmed and unsure of themselves at times when they are pregnant. If you answer yes to either of the following questions you could have depression:
- During the past month have you been feeling down, depressed or hopeless for more than half of the days of the month?
- During the past month have you had little interest or pleasure in doing things for more than half of the days of the month?
If you have these feelings reach out for help from your provider, care manager, friend or partner. If these feelings lasts longer than 2 weeks, call your doctor or care manager. They can help you decide the best way to help manage your emotions.