Written by Bryshan Francis, University of Toronto, Nutrition and Physiology Candidate, 2025
If you’re pregnant or recently had a baby, you’re probably juggling a lot right now. Maternity and wellness come with the joy of a new arrival and its own set of challenges, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re navigating the rollercoaster of pregnancy or adjusting to life after birth, prenatal and postpartum therapy with a social worker can be a game-changer. Let’s break down how pregnancy counselling can help and what to expect
during these times.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is often depicted as a time of glowing happiness and excitement. While many people do experience this, it’s also a time filled with unique challenges. Hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and the anticipation of a new life can be incredibly overwhelming. These symptoms can persist for longer than expected and can lead to pregnancy depression. Here’s what you might be dealing with:
●Emotional Rollercoaster: The surge in hormones can cause mood swings, anxiety, and even depression. Studies show that prenatal depression
affects about 7% of pregnant individuals. It’s more than just feeling a bit blue; it can impact your daily life and well-being.
●Stress and Anxiety: Anticipating a new arrival comes with its fair share of stress. From worries about the baby's health to concerns about your well-being,
these anxieties can be overwhelming. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that pregnancy-related stress is quite common, and managing it is crucial for both the parent's and baby’s health.
●Physical Discomfort: From morning sickness to back pain, pregnancy can be physically demanding. This discomfort can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety,
making it harder to relax and enjoy this special time.
How Prenatal Counselling Can Help:
Prenatal counselling offers a space to address these challenges. A social worker specializing in maternity and wellness can provide strategies to manage stress and anxiety. They can help you develop coping mechanisms for dealing with the emotional and physical aspects of pregnancy. Plus, they offer a supportive ear when you need to talk about your fears and expectations.
Post-Partum
Once the baby arrives, you might expect the stress to ease, but the postpartum period often brings its own set of challenges. Adjusting to life with a newborn, dealing with sleep deprivation, and managing new responsibilities can be tough. Here’s what you might experience:
●Post-Partum Depression: After birth, about 1 in 7 mothers experience post-partum depression. This isn’t just “baby blues” but a serious condition that can make it hard to care for
yourself and your baby. Symptoms include persistent sadness, fatigue, and trouble bonding with your baby.
●Stress and Overwhelm: The demands of caring for a newborn can lead to significant stress and feelings of being overwhelmed. It’s common to
feel like you’re running on empty, and this can impact your overall mental health and well-being.
●Hormonal Fluctuations: Just like during pregnancy, your hormones are shifting post-partum. These changes can affect your mood and emotional stability, contributing to feelings of sadness or anxiety.
If these symptoms persist for a prolonged period, prenatal depression could be something post-partum therapy can help solve.
How Post-Partum Therapy Can Help:
A social worker specializing in maternity and wellness can provide essential support during this challenging time. Post-partum therapy can help you navigate the emotional and practical aspects of new parenthood. From managing post-partum depression to developing strategies for selfcare, therapy can be a lifeline. It offers a chance to talk about your experiences and learn techniques to cope with the stress
and changes you’re facing.
Whether you’re expecting a baby or adjusting to life after birth, prenatal counselling can make a significant difference in improving maternity and wellness. With the right support, you can navigate the emotional and physical challenges of pregnancy and new parenthood more smoothly.
Have questions or want to book an appointment? Contact us, or book here, we love to help!
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