Advice on pregnancy is often heavily weighted towards nutrition and physical health but what about the mental health of you and your partner? You need to feel ready for the life changing transformation that is about to happen!
Understanding the risk factors to PPD. Finding ways to prevent and treat the disorder are essential and it will be good to read up on how to spot the symptoms and recognise the need to reach out to your GP.
Your doctor may suggest treatment that includes self care, psychotherapy or support groups, not just medication. Educating yourself on this invisible disorder can help you feel more mentally prepared to have your baby.
Check out NHS information HERE which includes symptoms to look out for, treatments and advice.
Having strong social connections during the prenatal phase is vital for supporting your mental health. It can instantly give you the confidence to tackle the uncertainty ahead. To ensure you have solid, informative and emotional support here are a few things you can do:
1.Communicate with your partner – work at making a solid relationship and talk about concerns.
2. Call on family and friends – if you have worries talk them through with people who have had children, been there and bought the t-shirt!
3. Join a group of parents to be – it will be helpful to share your experiences. Attending breastfeeding classes, parenting, childbirth or pregnancy groups will all offer valuable insights.
Finally, don’t overlook your mindset. Here are a few strategies for taking care of you and your partner’s mental health:
- Stop negative self-talk
- Take time for yourself: read, go for walks, work out, whatever makes you feel relaxed.
- Take an antenatal or parenting class to feel prepared.
- Talk with your partner about how you will deal with challenges that will arise.