Perinatal Mental Health

It's Okay not to feel okay

PERINATAL MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Perinatal mental health and well-being refers to a person's emotional, psychological, and social health during pregnancy (the prenatal period) and through the first year to two years following childbirth

HOW MIGHT IT FEEL?

Feeling low or tearful

Feeling sad, empty, hopeless, or crying more than usual.

Feeling worried or overwhelmed

Racing thoughts, constant worry, panic, or feeling on edge.

Feeling unlike yourself

Losing interest in things, struggling to cope, or feeling disconnected from others.

49% of mothers and birthing parents surveyed reported emotional or mental health challenges during pregnancy or after childbirth (StatsCan 2024).

You can love your baby and still struggle.

Pregnancy and becoming a parent can bring many emotions. You don't have to pretend everything is okay.

Some people find it helpful to...

Talk with Family & Friends

Spend Time with Loved ONes

Get out on the Land

Find Ways to Rest & Exercise

Five Facts about Perinatal Mental health

It can start before your baby arrives.
- Perinatal mental health includes your emotional well-being during pregnancy and throughout the first year after birth.
Mixed feelings are okay.
- You might feel happy, worried, excited, exhausted, or overwhelmed; sometimes all in the same day.
Anyone can struggle.
- Depression and anxiety can affect people during pregnancy and after birth. This is not a sign of weakness or failure.
Signs can be different.
- Signs can include constant worry, irritability, feeling numb, guilt, losing interest in things, or finding everyday tasks difficult.
Support and treatment can help.
- Talking with someone you trust, peer support, counselling, and other treatments can help people feel better.

Innu

Midwifery Program