Nurture Your Mind: Supporting Mental Health in High-Risk Pregnancy

Introduction: You're Not Alone on This Journey

Hearing the words "high-risk pregnancy" can instantly add a layer of stress and uncertainty to what is already a deeply emotional time. While you're focusing on the physical well-being of yourself and your growing baby, it's absolutely crucial to remember that your mental health during high-risk pregnancy matters just as much. It's completely normal to feel a whirlwind of emotions – perhaps fear about the unknowns, anxiety about potential complications, guilt, or even anger that your pregnancy journey looks different than you imagined. You might feel isolated, overwhelmed, or like you've lost control. Please know, these feelings are valid, common, and you are not alone.  

Experiencing a high-risk pregnancy, which affects nearly one in five pregnancies, inherently brings unique challenges that can significantly impact emotional well-being. The constant worry, frequent appointments, potential lifestyle changes, and uncertainty about the future can take a toll. This guide is here to offer gentle support and practical strategies. We'll explore how to acknowledge and navigate these complex emotions, recognize when normal worry might be something more, build a strong support system, communicate effectively with your healthcare team, practice essential self-care, and find professional help when needed. Taking proactive steps to nurture your mental health is not just for you; it's a vital part of ensuring the healthiest possible outcome for both you and your precious baby. Let's walk through this together, one step at a time.  

Understanding the Emotional Landscape of High-Risk Pregnancy

A high-risk pregnancy diagnosis immediately shifts the emotional terrain. It's not just about the typical excitements and anxieties of expecting; it introduces specific stressors and worries tied directly to the health and safety of you and your baby. Understanding this unique emotional landscape is the first step toward navigating it with compassion and strength.

Acknowledging the Unique Stressors

Being labeled "high-risk" can, in itself, become a source of stress. Suddenly, your pregnancy might feel defined by potential problems rather than joyful anticipation. You might face more frequent doctor visits, additional tests, potential hospital stays, or recommendations for activity restriction or bed rest. These changes disrupt routines and can lead to feelings of uncertainty, loss of control, and fear about potential outcomes. Financial worries, concerns about work, managing other children, and the sheer physical and emotional demands of the situation add further layers of stress. It's also common to worry intensely about your baby's health, your own health, the birth experience, and how you'll cope with potential challenges after delivery. Acknowledging that these stressors are real and significant is crucial. Don't dismiss your feelings or compare your journey to others; your experience is valid. This acknowledgment allows you to approach your mental health needs without judgment.  

Common Emotions and Why They Surface

The emotional rollercoaster of a high-risk pregnancy often includes intense feelings like fear, anxiety, anger, guilt, sadness, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Fear often stems from the unknown – uncertainty about the baby's health, potential complications, or the delivery itself. Anxiety, characterized by persistent worry and unease, can become pervasive, sometimes focusing specifically on pregnancy-related concerns like the baby's well-being or the healthcare experience. Anger might arise from feeling like your body has let you down, resentment towards the situation, or frustration with limitations. Guilt is another common, yet unhelpful, emotion; you might wrongly blame yourself for the high-risk status, wondering what you did "wrong". It's vital to remember that a high-risk pregnancy is not your fault. Sadness can surface due to the loss of the "normal" pregnancy experience you envisioned or grief over potential limitations. These emotions are natural responses to a challenging and stressful situation, often amplified by hormonal shifts during pregnancy. Recognizing these feelings without judgment is key to managing mental health during high-risk pregnancy.  

Recognizing When Worry Becomes Something More

While worry is a normal part of any pregnancy, especially a high-risk one, it's important to know when typical anxiety might be escalating into a more significant mental health concern like perinatal depression or an anxiety disorder. These conditions are common, treatable, and not a sign of weakness. Early recognition is key to getting the support you need for your well-being and your baby's.  

Distinguishing Normal Anxiety from Clinical Conditions

It's natural to worry more when facing pregnancy complications. However, clinical anxiety goes beyond typical worry. It often feels persistent, excessive, and difficult to control. You might feel constantly on edge, restless, irritable, or have a sense of impending doom. Physical symptoms like a racing heart, trouble sleeping (even when the baby isn't keeping you up), changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, headaches, or stomach issues can also occur. Perinatal depression shares some symptoms but often includes persistent sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in things you once enjoyed, overwhelming fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and sometimes trouble bonding with the baby or thoughts of self-harm. Unlike the "baby blues," which are mild mood swings lasting only a couple of weeks postpartum, perinatal depression and anxiety are more severe, last longer, and typically require treatment to improve. Recognizing these differences is crucial for seeking timely help.  

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For (Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders - PMADs)

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) encompass a range of conditions beyond depression and generalized anxiety. Being aware of these can help you identify specific struggles.

• Perinatal Depression: Persistent sadness, hopelessness, guilt, loss of interest, fatigue, sleep/appetite changes, difficulty concentrating, trouble bonding, thoughts of harm.
• Perinatal Anxiety: Excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, feeling on edge, racing thoughts, inability to relax, physical symptoms (racing heart, dizziness, nausea). Panic attacks are sudden surges of intense fear.
• Perinatal OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder): Characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts or images (obsessions), often related to the baby's safety, and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety (e.g., constant checking). These thoughts can be very scary, but are typically anxiety-driven.
• Perinatal PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): Can arise from a traumatic experience related to pregnancy, birth (e.g., emergency C-section, NICU stay), or past trauma. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, avoiding reminders of the trauma, and feeling easily startled.
• Postpartum Psychosis (PPP): A rare but serious emergency requiring immediate medical help. Symptoms appear suddenly, often within days or weeks of birth, and include delusions, hallucinations, paranoia, confusion, rapid mood swings, and potentially thoughts of harming self or baby. Risk factors include a personal or family history of bipolar disorder.

If you experience symptoms that last longer than two weeks, feel severe, interfere with your daily life or ability to care for yourself or your baby, or include thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, it's crucial to reach out to your healthcare provider immediately.

Table 1: Recognizing Perinatal Mental Health Concerns

Building Your Essential Support Network

Navigating a high-risk pregnancy can feel isolating, but you don't have to go through it alone. Building a strong support network is one of the most powerful things you can do for your mental health during high-risk pregnancy. Having people to lean on, share with, and get practical help from can make a world of difference.

The Crucial Role of Partners, Family, and Friends

Your closest relationships are often your first line of defense against stress and anxiety. Open communication with your partner is key. Share your fears, worries, and needs honestly. Encourage them to attend appointments with you if possible, not just for support, but also to help absorb information and ask questions. Remember, this experience affects them too, and facing it together can strengthen your bond. Family and friends can offer invaluable emotional comfort and practical help. Don't be afraid to ask for specific assistance – whether it's help with chores, childcare for older siblings, meal preparation, or simply a listening ear. People often want to help but don't know how; giving them concrete tasks can be beneficial for everyone. Setting boundaries is also important; gently let loved ones know what kind of support is helpful and what isn't (e.g., constant questioning vs. offering practical aid). Sometimes, designating one person as a point of contact for updates can reduce the burden of repeating information.  

Finding Connection Through Support Groups

Connecting with other women who truly understand what you're going through can be incredibly validating and reduce feelings of isolation. High-risk pregnancy support groups, whether in-person or online, offer a safe space to share experiences, exchange coping strategies, and find camaraderie. Hearing others' stories can normalize your own feelings and provide hope. Organizations like Postpartum Support International (PSI) offer numerous free, virtual support groups covering various aspects of perinatal mental health, including groups specifically for NICU parents, those experiencing loss, military families, parents of multiples, and many more. There are also groups tailored for specific high-risk conditions or experiences like bed rest support or termination for medical reasons. While social media groups can sometimes offer connection, proceed with caution, as they may not always provide accurate information or a consistently supportive environment. Prioritize groups facilitated by trained professionals or reputable organizations like PSI or those recommended by your healthcare provider. Remember, finding your tribe can be a powerful tool for emotional support high-risk pregnancy.  

Communicating Effectively with Your Healthcare Team

Your relationship with your doctors, midwives, and nurses is paramount during a high-risk pregnancy. Open, honest, and proactive communication is essential not only for your physical care but also for addressing your mental health during high-risk pregnancy. Feeling heard, understood, and respected by your care team can significantly reduce anxiety and empower you in your journey.

Preparing for Appointments and Asking Questions

Appointments can feel rushed or overwhelming, especially when dealing with complex information. Preparation is key to making the most of this time. Before each visit, take a few moments to jot down any questions or concerns that have come up since your last appointment. No question is too small or silly – if it's on your mind, it's worth asking. Consider questions about your specific condition, test results, potential next steps, what certain medical terms mean, or how the baby is progressing. Having a list ensures you don't forget anything important in the moment. It can also be incredibly helpful to bring a support person (partner, friend, family member) to appointments. They can offer emotional support, help take notes, remember details, and even ask clarifying questions you might not think of. Being prepared shows your provider you are actively engaged in your care.  

Voicing Your Mental Health Concerns and Needs

It can feel vulnerable to talk about anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress, but your healthcare team needs to know how you're really doing emotionally. Your mental well-being is intrinsically linked to your physical health and pregnancy outcomes. Don't hesitate to bring up your feelings. You could start by saying, "I've been feeling really anxious lately about..." or "I'm struggling with feelings of sadness/overwhelm, and I wanted to talk about it". Be specific about your symptoms if you can. Your provider can assess your situation, offer reassurance, provide resources, and discuss potential treatment options if needed, including therapy referrals or medication possibilities. Remember, healthcare providers who specialize in high-risk pregnancies are often well-equipped to guide and support your mental health needs. They understand the unique pressures you're under. Communicating with doctors high-risk pregnancy about your emotional state is a crucial act of self-advocacy. If you ever feel dismissed or unheard, it's okay to seek a second opinion or consider finding a provider who is a better fit for your needs.  

Essential Self-Care Strategies

When navigating the complexities of a high-risk pregnancy, prioritizing self-care isn't a luxury – it's a necessity. Taking intentional steps to care for your physical and emotional well-being can help you cope with stress, build resilience, and feel more grounded amidst the uncertainty. Self-care high-risk pregnancy strategies are about nurturing yourself gently and consistently.

Prioritizing Rest, Nutrition, and Gentle Movement

Your body is working incredibly hard. Getting adequate rest is crucial, though often challenging during pregnancy. Aim for consistent sleep, and don't hesitate to nap during the day if you feel tired. Listen to your body's cues for rest. Nourishing yourself with a healthy, balanced diet provides the energy and nutrients needed for both you and your baby. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Gentle, doctor-approved physical activity can be a powerful mood booster and stress reliever. Even short walks or prenatal yoga can release endorphins, improve circulation, and help manage common pregnancy discomforts. Always check with your provider before starting or modifying any exercise routine, especially with a high-risk diagnosis. These foundational elements – rest, nutrition, and movement – form the bedrock of physical and mental health during high-risk pregnancy.  

Mindfulness, Relaxation, and Stress Reduction Techniques

Actively managing stress is vital, as chronic stress can potentially impact both maternal and fetal health. Thankfully, there are many accessible techniques for high-risk pregnancy stress relief. Mindfulness practices, like meditation or simply focusing on your breath for a few minutes each day, can help calm a racing mind and anchor you in the present moment. Deep breathing exercises are particularly effective; try inhaling slowly through your nose, feeling your belly rise, and exhaling slowly through your mouth. Guided imagery or visualization can also promote relaxation. Prenatal yoga combines gentle movement with breathwork and relaxation. Journaling can be a powerful outlet for processing thoughts and feelings without judgment. Engaging in hobbies or activities you genuinely enjoy, even simple ones like reading, listening to music, or taking a warm bath, can provide moments of respite and pleasure. Experiment to find what works best for you.  

Special Considerations for Activity Restriction or Bed Rest

If your provider recommends activity restriction or bed rest, it can present unique challenges to self-care and mental well-being. It's important to understand that current recommendations often favor "activity restriction" over strict bed rest, recognizing the potential downsides of complete inactivity like blood clots or muscle weakness. Clarify exactly what activities are permitted and restricted with your doctor. Even with limitations, self-care is possible. Establish a daily routine to provide structure. Engage your mind with books, puzzles, journaling, learning a new hobby like knitting, or online courses. Stay connected with loved ones through phone calls, video chats, or visits. Practice in-bed relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music. Gentle, approved in-bed exercises or stretches can help maintain some muscle tone and prevent stiffness. Make your space comfortable and pleasant – bring items from home if hospitalized, open blinds for sunlight, and display photos. Acknowledge the frustration and boredom, list gratitudes daily, and treat yourself when possible. Seek support from online groups specifically for those on bed rest.  

Seeking Professional Mental Health Support

While self-care and social support are vital, sometimes professional help is necessary to navigate the emotional challenges of a high-risk pregnancy. Reaching out to a mental health professional is a sign of strength, not weakness, and can provide you with specialized tools and support tailored to your unique situation. There are effective treatments available for perinatal depression support and anxiety management.

When and Why to Consider Therapy

If feelings of anxiety, sadness, or stress become overwhelming, persist for more than a couple of weeks, interfere with your daily functioning, impact your ability to care for yourself, or include thoughts of hopelessness or self-harm, it's time to consider therapy. Therapy offers a confidential, non-judgmental space to explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and process the unique stressors of a high-risk pregnancy. Therapists specializing in perinatal mental health understand the specific challenges you face, including navigating medical uncertainty, managing fear, and adjusting to potential changes in your pregnancy or birth plan. Evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), which focuses on relationships and life events impacting mood, have proven effective for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Seeking therapy is an investment in your well-being and can significantly improve your experience during this challenging time.  

Finding a Therapist Specializing in Perinatal Mental Health

Finding the right therapist is crucial. Look for professionals with specific training and experience in perinatal mental health (sometimes designated PMH-C). Your OB-GYN, midwife, or primary care provider is often a good starting point for referrals. Excellent online resources can also help you locate qualified providers:  

• Postpartum Support International (PSI) Provider Directory: This is a primary resource listing therapists, psychiatrists, support groups, and other professionals across the US and Canada who specialize in perinatal mental health. You can filter by location, insurance, specialty (like high-risk pregnancy, loss, trauma), and whether they offer online services.
• Psychology Today: A broader directory where you can filter by location, insurance, and specialty, including "Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum".
• Your Insurance Company: Check your insurance provider's directory for in-network mental health professionals, though you may need to cross-reference their perinatal expertise.
• Local Hospitals or Women's Health Centers: Many have programs or can provide referrals. When contacting potential therapists, ask about their experience with high-risk pregnancies, their therapeutic approach, fees, and insurance acceptance. Trust your intuition; it's important to find someone you feel comfortable with.Finding therapist high-risk pregnancy support might take a few calls, but the right connection is worth the effort.

Understanding Medication Options (In Consultation with Your Doctor)

In some cases, particularly for moderate to severe depression or anxiety, medication may be recommended alongside therapy. It's understandable to have concerns about taking medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, untreated or undertreated mental health conditions also carry risks for both mother and baby. The decision to use medication is highly individualized and should always be made in close consultation with your healthcare providers (OB-GYN, MFM specialist, psychiatrist) after carefully weighing the potential risks and benefits. Certain antidepressants, like some SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), have been studied extensively and are considered relatively safe options during pregnancy and lactation when clinically necessary. Your doctor will aim for the lowest effective dose of a single medication whenever possible. Open communication about your history, concerns, and any side effects is crucial. Remember, managing your mental health effectively is a key part of a healthy pregnancy, and medication can be a valuable tool for some women.  

Managing Uncertainty and Fear

One of the hardest aspects of a high-risk pregnancy is often the pervasive sense of uncertainty. Not knowing exactly what will happen, worrying about potential outcomes, and feeling a lack of control can fuel significant fear and anxiety. Learning strategies to manage these feelings is essential for navigating high-risk pregnancy emotions.

Focusing on What You Can Control

While much about a high-risk pregnancy feels uncontrollable, shifting your focus to the aspects you can influence can be empowering. You can control how you care for yourself – prioritizing rest, eating nourishing foods, and engaging in gentle, approved movement. You can control how you prepare for appointments by writing down questions and bringing a support person. You can control seeking information from reliable sources provided by your doctor, rather than falling down internet rabbit holes. You can control practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness. You can control reaching out for support from loved ones or professionals. You can control advocating for your needs and preferences with your healthcare team. Acknowledging these areas of agency can help counteract feelings of helplessness and provide a sense of grounding. Taking things one day, one hour, or even one minute at a time can also make the uncertainty feel more manageable.  

The Power of Knowledge (from Reliable Sources)

Feeling informed can significantly reduce fear and anxiety associated with the unknown. Understanding your specific condition, the reasons for increased monitoring, and what to expect can demystify the process and help you feel more like an active participant in your care. However, it's crucial to get this information from reliable sources. Ask your doctor, MFM specialist, or midwife for credible websites, pamphlets, or resources specific to your situation. Reputable organizations like the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM), ACOG, March of Dimes, and the Preeclampsia Foundation offer patient education materials vetted by experts. Avoid aimless "Dr. Google" searches, which can often lead to inaccurate, frightening, or irrelevant information, increasing anxiety rather than alleviating it. Taking childbirth education classes can also empower you with knowledge about labor and delivery, potentially reducing fear surrounding the birth itself. Reducing fear high-risk pregnancy often involves arming yourself with accurate, relevant information from trusted sources.  

Looking Ahead: Postpartum Mental Health

The journey doesn't end at delivery. The postpartum period brings its own set of adjustments, hormonal shifts, and potential stressors, especially after navigating a high-risk pregnancy. Being aware of and prepared for potential postpartum mental health high-risk challenges is crucial for a smoother transition.

Continued Vulnerability After a High-Risk Birth

Experiencing a high-risk pregnancy can increase your vulnerability to postpartum mental health issues like depression and anxiety. The stress, anxiety, and potential trauma experienced during pregnancy don't necessarily disappear the moment the baby arrives. In fact, the significant hormonal shifts immediately after birth can sometimes initially worsen mood symptoms. Furthermore, the circumstances surrounding a high-risk birth might introduce new stressors – perhaps a baby needing NICU care, recovery from a C-section or birth complications, or managing ongoing health concerns for yourself or your baby. The exhaustion of caring for a newborn, combined with potential sleep deprivation, can further exacerbate emotional challenges. It's essential for both you and your support system to remain vigilant for signs of PMADs during the postpartum period, understanding that these conditions can emerge anytime within the first year.  

Planning for Postpartum Support

Proactive planning can make a significant difference in managing the postpartum period after a high-risk pregnancy. Continue to lean on your support network – partner, family, friends – for practical help (meals, chores, baby care) and emotional encouragement. Discuss postpartum expectations and needs with your partner beforehand. If you worked with a therapist during pregnancy, consider continuing sessions postpartum. If you didn't, know that it's never too late to seek help. Keep the contact information for support resources like the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-943-5746) and the PSI Helpline (1-800-944-4773) readily available. Attend your postpartum checkups and be honest with your provider about how you're feeling emotionally. Pediatrician visits are also opportunities for screening and support. Consider joining a postpartum support group, either online or in your community. Prioritize rest as much as possible, accept offers of help, and be gentle with yourself during this demanding transition. Planning for support acknowledges the challenges and empowers you to navigate them effectively.  

Quick Takeaways

• Your Feelings Are Valid: It's normal to experience intense emotions like fear, anxiety, guilt, and stress during a high-risk pregnancy. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment.
• Mental Health is Crucial: Prioritizing your emotional well-being is as important as your physical health for both you and your baby. Untreated mental health issues can impact pregnancy outcomes.
• Know the Signs: Learn to distinguish normal worry from conditions like perinatal depression or anxiety. Seek help if symptoms are severe, persistent (lasting >2 weeks), or interfere with daily life.
• Build Your Village: Lean on partners, family, friends, and support groups (like those offered by PSI) for emotional and practical help. You don't have to go through this alone.
• Communicate & Advocate: Talk openly with your healthcare team about your physical and mental health concerns. Prepare questions and advocate for your needs.
• Practice Self-Care: Prioritize rest, nutrition, gentle movement (doctor-approved), and stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or journaling.
• Seek Professional Help When Needed: Therapy and, if necessary, medication (discussed with your doctor) are effective treatments for PMADs. Specialized perinatal mental health providers are available.

Conclusion: Embracing Strength and Seeking Support

Navigating a high-risk pregnancy is undoubtedly a challenging path, one that requires immense strength, resilience, and self-compassion. Remember, the complex emotions you may be experiencing – the worry, the fear, the uncertainty – are understandable responses to a difficult situation. Your mental health during high-risk pregnancy is not an afterthought; it's a fundamental component of your overall well-being and plays a vital role in the health of your baby.  

Throughout this guide, we've explored practical ways to acknowledge your feelings, build robust support systems, communicate effectively with your care team, prioritize essential self-care, and manage the inherent uncertainties of this journey. We've highlighted the importance of recognizing when worry might signal a need for professional help and underscored that seeking support – whether from loved ones, support groups, or mental health professionals – is a proactive and courageous step. You are not expected to handle this alone, and resources like Postpartum Support International and the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline are there to help.  

As you move forward, be gentle with yourself. Celebrate small victories, focus on what you can control, and lean into the support available to you. Taking care of your mental health is one of the most loving things you can do for yourself and your growing family during this time. Your call to action is simple yet profound: Prioritize your emotional well-being. Reach out, connect, and allow yourself to be supported. You have the strength to navigate this, and help is available every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it normal to feel constantly anxious during a high-risk pregnancy? While increased worry is common, constant, overwhelming anxiety that interferes with your daily life might indicate a perinatal anxiety disorder. If your anxiety feels excessive or uncontrollable, or includes physical symptoms like a racing heart or trouble sleeping, it's important to discuss these navigating high-risk pregnancy emotions with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if it's typical worry or something more needing perinatal depression support or anxiety treatment.
2. How can I cope with guilt about my high-risk diagnosis? It's crucial to understand that a high-risk pregnancy is not your fault. Guilt is a common but unhelpful emotion in this situation. Focus on releasing self-blame. Remind yourself that you are doing the best you can in a challenging circumstance. Talking about these feelings with a therapist, support group, or trusted loved one can be very helpful in processing and letting go of guilt as part of your coping strategies pregnancy complications.
3. Where can I find support groups specifically for high-risk pregnancies? Postpartum Support International (PSI) offers numerous free, virtual support groups, some tailored to specific experiences like NICU stays, loss, or parents of multiples. Your hospital or MFM specialist may also recommend local or condition-specific high-risk pregnancy support groups. Searching the PSI website (postpartum.net) or asking your provider are great starting points.
4. I'm worried about taking medication for anxiety/depression while pregnant. Are there safe options? This is a common concern. Untreated mental health conditions also pose risks to you and your baby. Discuss your concerns openly with your doctor. They can explain the potential risks and benefits of specific medications based on current research. Some medications, particularly certain SSRIs, are considered relatively safe and effective for use during pregnancy when necessary. The decision is always individualized, weighing benefits against risks, and should involve shared decision-making between you and your healthcare team.
5. My partner/family doesn't seem to understand my stress. How can I help them support me better? Open communication is key. Try explaining specifically what makes this experience stressful for you. Share reliable information or articles about mental health during high-risk pregnancy. Suggest concrete ways they can help, whether it's practical tasks (like chores or attending appointments) or specific emotional support (like listening without judgment or offering reassurance). Sometimes, involving them in a therapy session or pointing them towards resources for partners/families (PSI offers some) can also improve understanding and support.

Spread the Word

Facing a high-risk pregnancy is tough, but support makes all the difference. Share this guide to help other expecting moms prioritize their mental health during this challenging time. #HighRiskPregnancy #MentalHealthMatters #PerinatalMentalHealth #PregnancySupport [Link to article]

References

1. Postpartum Support International (PSI). (n.d.). Homepage. Retrieved from https://www.postpartum.net
2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (Various Dates). Committee Opinions and Clinical Practice Guidelines on Perinatal Mental Health. Washington, DC: ACOG.
3. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2023). Perinatal Depression. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/perinatal-depression
4. March of Dimes. (2023, February). Stress and pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/stress-and-pregnancy
5. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB). (n.d.). National Maternal Mental Health Hotline. Retrieved from https://mchb.hrsa.gov/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline (Phone: 1-833-943-5746)