Depression During Pregnancy: Mental Health Support Guide

Depression during pregnancy affects 10-20% of gestational parents with symptoms ranging from persistent sadness to anxiety, but evidence-based therapy with licensed mental health professionals provides effective treatment through cognitive-behavioral techniques and specialized perinatal support.

When the joy you expected during pregnancy feels overshadowed by persistent sadness, you're not alone. Depression during pregnancy affects up to 1 in 5 expectant parents, yet many suffer in silence. Understanding your symptoms and exploring professional support can help you navigate this challenging time and rediscover hope.

Depression And Pregnancy: Mental Health Support For Depression Symptoms

Depression during and after pregnancy is not uncommon. Though many new parents associate joy and excitement with pregnancy, it is estimated that 10% to 20% of gestational parents experience symptoms of perinatal depression, a form of depression that develops during pregnancy and can form into postpartum depression after birth.

Understanding depression after miscarriage and perinatal depression

After a miscarriage, approximately 10% of people experience a major depressive disorder.

Awareness of the signs of depression can help you identify when you might benefit from reaching out for support. Perinatal depression (which includes prenatal and postpartum depression) is a real mental health condition that can have severe impacts. Therapy with licensed clinical social workers has been proven to effectively reduce symptoms of prenatal and postpartum depression in many individuals.

Pregnancy and depression: What is perinatal depression?

Perinatal depression is a depressive disorder that occurs during pregnancy, before pregnancy (prenatal depression), or after birth (postpartum depression). This form of depression is also known as a mood disorder, since there is a disconnect between someone’s actual life circumstances and their state of mental health. Though it is estimated that 10-15% of women experience perinatal depression in developed countries, rates are higher in developing countries. In the US, 10% to 20% of gestational parents may have this condition.

Risk of developing perinatal depression

Several factors can increase one’s risk of experiencing perinatal depression, including the following:

• Life stressors
• The physical toll of pregnancy and childbirth
• A lack of sleep
• Fluctuations in hormone levels
• Young age at the time of pregnancy
• An unwanted pregnancy
• Low socioeconomic status or education level
• Domestic violence
• Substance use during pregnancy
• A history of depression and/or trauma
• A personal or family history of mental illness
• Premature birth
• Difficulty breastfeeding or pressure to breastfeed
• A lack of adequate social support from a partner, family, or friends

Partners can also experience anxiety and depression symptoms

Women and gestational parents are not the only individuals who face perinatal depression. Studies show that over 10% of fathers experience symptoms of anxiety and depression during the perinatal period, which may be underreported due to stigma and lack of awareness. Same-sex partners may also experience perinatal depression if their partner is pregnant. However, more studies on same-sex couples are needed in mental health.

Common signs of perinatal depression

Depression can look different for different people. The duration, intensity, and frequency of symptoms may vary, and the treatments that work for each person can also vary.

Perinatal depression symptoms

However, it is common for people with perinatal depression to experience some or all the following symptoms:

• Intense mood swings and irritability
• Frequent crying
• Prolonged sadness or a sense of emptiness
• Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or guilt
• Difficulty bonding or connecting with your new baby
• Social withdrawal from friends and family
• Weight or appetite changes
• Unexplained physical pains, like headaches or digestive issues
• Worries that you are not enough as a parent
• A lack of interest or joy in previously enjoyable activities
• Insomnia or hypersomnia
• Intense fatigue and a lack of energy
• Restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Anxiety or frequent worrying
• Thoughts of self-harm, harming someone else, or suicide

Prenatal or postpartum depression is common

Experiencing prenatal or postpartum depression is common and not an indicator that you are or will be a “bad parent.” Perinatal depression can be serious and sometimes develops months or years after childbirth. However, you’re not alone, and effective treatment is available. If you are thinking of harming your child, reach out for professional support immediately.

How to receive a diagnosis and find treatment for depression symptoms

Healthcare providers often utilize routine screening to assess whether clients are experiencing symptoms of depression. If they believe you might be experiencing perinatal depression, they can conduct a more thorough evaluation and connect you with the appropriate resources.

Contact OB-GYN or mental health professional if you feel depressed

You can also contact your OB-GYN, primary care physician, or a mental health professional if you are concerned that you might be depressed. If you’ve been recording your symptoms in a journal, bringing it with you for your reference during the evaluation may be helpful.

They may determine that you have one of the following:

Perinatal depression (prenatal and postpartum depression)

Perinatal depression is a term to describe depression before, during, and after birth. This diagnosable psychiatric disorder is often addressed with therapy from licensed clinical social workers, and in some cases, medication prescribed by a qualified medical professional (not provided by ReachLink).

Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a serious but rare short-term psychotic disorder. People with postpartum psychosis often require specialized care beyond what telehealth platforms can provide, including inpatient treatment with medications, therapy, and supervision.

A healthcare provider may not divulge a diagnosis; instead, they may determine that you or your partner are experiencing normal responses to transitioning to parenthood. Many parents experience stress, physical and emotional exhaustion, and sleep deprivation that can cause feelings like sadness and anger. This doesn’t necessarily mean you are experiencing depression during pregnancy or after the birth of your child. Oftentimes, these feelings are resolved within a few days or weeks of childbirth.

CBT for depression, pregnancy, and other mental health conditions

Some people experience a reduction in perinatal depression symptoms when they attend therapy sessions with a licensed clinical social worker. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on re-evaluating thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to address symptoms. CBT for perinatal depression has been proven effective at reducing symptoms.

Telehealth therapy for depression during pregnancy

For people who find that commuting to therapy is a barrier to receiving appropriate care, telehealth therapy through a platform like ReachLink may be valuable. A study from 2018 found that online CBT could effectively address depression and common mental health conditions.

Telehealth therapy platforms can enable you to connect with a licensed clinical social worker on your own schedule, which can be beneficial for busy new parents or pregnant individuals. ReachLink’s secure video sessions provide a convenient way to access mental health support from the comfort of your home, eliminating geographical barriers and offering greater scheduling flexibility.

Takeaway

Changes in hormone levels, lifestyle, and financial instability that can occur during pregnancy and early parenthood are common causes of perinatal depression and anxiety. Taking steps to exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, get enough rest, socialize, and accept support can lessen the risk. Prenatal and postpartum depression are common and can affect anyone of any gender or sexual orientation. Understand the signs of depression so that you can seek professional support if necessary. Therapy with licensed clinical social workers is often an effective treatment. If you’re looking for guidance, consider connecting with a ReachLink therapist for further support.

Frequently asked questions

Can depression affect a baby during pregnancy?

Untreated depression during pregnancy can impact both the mother and the child. Infants born to mothers with depression are more likely to experience developmental delays and may be at a higher risk for behavioral and emotional challenges later in life. Seeking treatment and support can help reduce these risks and promote a healthier pregnancy.

How to fight depression during pregnancy?

You can address depression during pregnancy with appropriate treatment and support from a professional. Licensed clinical social workers may recommend therapy and lifestyle changes, while medical professionals (separate from ReachLink services) can advise on medication options that are safe during pregnancy. Self-care strategies such as relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and engaging in light physical activity can also help improve mood and overall well-being. Connecting with a strong support system—whether through family, friends, or support groups—can provide emotional reassurance and encouragement during this time.