The American Psychiatric Association reports that about 20 percent of pregnant or postpartum women in the U.S. will experience a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, or thoughts of suicide. You’re at higher risk and less likely to receive treatment if you’re Black, Indigenous, or low-income due to racism, stress, and class.
The Maternal Mental Health Leadership Appliance Steps to Wellness fact sheet has tips that you can use to protect your mental health before, during, and after pregnancy.
Self-Care
- Get 4-5 hours of sleep
- Drink water; eat high-protein snacks
- Take light walks to boost your mood
- Carve out 15 minutes alone daily
Social support
- Talk to a trusted friend about your feelings
- Spend time with another adult or group of new parents
- Ask for babysitting help to run errands
- Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA
Counseling
- Reach out for support if you’re struggling with substance use or depression
- Select and meet with a therapist
- Use mindfulness to focus on your total sense of self
Medication
- Use LactMed to learn about medicines and breastfeeding
- Ask your pregnancy care provider or therapist about the medications that are best for you and your baby
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