Stress Awareness Month is recognised every April to encourage us to talk about stress, mental health and the things we can do to help ourselves.
Let’s shine a light on mental health in pregnancy. We’ve looked at what NHS England has to say about it.
Being pregnant is a big life event and it is natural to feel a lot of different emotions. But if you’re feeling sad and it’s starting to affect your life, there are things you can try that may help.
Things you can try to help with your mental health when you are pregnant
- talk about your feelings to a friend, family member, doctor or midwife
- try calming breathing exercises if you feel overwhelmed
- do physical activity if you can – it can improve your mood and help you sleep
- eat a healthy diet with regular meals
- try to attend antenatal classes to meet others who are expecting babies around the same time as you
Things you should avoid to help your mental health when you are pregnant
- do not compare yourself to others – everyone experiences pregnancy in different ways
- do not be afraid to tell healthcare professionals how you are feeling – they are there to listen and support you
- do not use alcohol, cigarettes or drugs to try and feel better – these can make you feel worse and affect your baby’s growth and wellbeing
When to speak to your midwife
You should speak to your midwife if the things you are trying yourself are not helping. They can offer support and may offer to refer you to perinatal mental health services or other emotional support.
If you’re pregnant and need help with your mental health now
Support is available for you. If you need someone to talk to, contact your maternity unit or visit our ‘mental health’ service directory for information and contact details.
If you need more information
Visit NHS England’s page about mental health in pregnancy
We’ve developed a ‘one stop shop’ to support you through every stage of your pregnancy.
Visit our pregnancy and maternity pages
