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.⠀ ⠀ However, a lot of new mums may not recognise this anxiety and its effects on their emotional and mental wellbeing.⠀ ⠀ Anxiety and worries are normal responses that we feel to threats, changes and new situations. Such as pregnancy, birth and the transition into parenthood.⠀ ⠀ "But how do I know if I have perinatal anxiety or need support?"⠀ ⠀ ⠀ 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.⠀ ⠀ Anxiety perinatally looks and feels like –:arrow_down:️⠀ ⠀ Irritability and feelings of overwhelm.⠀ ⠀ Very black and white thinking⠀ ⠀ Harmful unserving beliefs about your abilities to mother.⠀ ⠀ Self-blaming⠀ ⠀ Catastrophizing thoughts⠀ ⠀ Feeling constantly on edge⠀ ⠀ Excessive worrying about the future or your baby⠀ ⠀ Increased heart rate, sweating shortness of breath or muscle tension.⠀ ⠀ lack of confidence in your abilities⠀ ⠀ Intrusive thoughts or images⠀ ⠀ Difficulty sleeping⠀ ⠀ ⠀ 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.⠀