13/07/2021 0 Comments
PERINATAL ANXIETY
Anxiety during pregnancy and in the first year postnatally is as common as depression.
The MAMMI study found that 1 in 14 women experienced anxiety before they became pregnant, almost 1 in 20 experienced anxiety during pregnancy and this increased to 1in 8 just three months after the baby was born.⠀
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However, a lot of new mums may not recognise this anxiety and its effects on their emotional and mental wellbeing.⠀
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Anxiety and worries are normal responses that we feel to threats, changes and new situations. Such as pregnancy, birth and the transition into parenthood.⠀
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"But how do I know if I have perinatal anxiety or need support?"⠀
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It’s when the anxiety or worries take over, become constant or disrupt your normal day to day activities, relationships or precious time with your baby.⠀
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Anxiety perinatally looks and feels like –:arrow_down:️⠀
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Irritability and feelings of overwhelm.⠀
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Very black and white thinking⠀
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Harmful unserving beliefs about your abilities to mother.⠀
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Self-blaming⠀
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Catastrophizing thoughts⠀
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Feeling constantly on edge⠀
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Excessive worrying about the future or your baby⠀
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Increased heart rate, sweating shortness of breath or muscle tension.⠀
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lack of confidence in your abilities⠀
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Intrusive thoughts or images⠀
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Difficulty sleeping⠀
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If you are struggling with any of the above, I am here to support and guide you with resources to help you down regulate your anxiety and manage its disruptive symptoms.⠀
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