Motherhood is a time of endless joy. It’s also a deep emotional journey for some. Caring for a mother’s mental health is important to the well-being of mothers as well as their children.
Maternal mental health is the emotional well-being of mothers during and after pregnancy. It can involve a wide range of experiences from the “baby blues” to more severe conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety disorders. According to the CDC, 1 in 8 women experience postpartum depression, and 50 percent of them go without treatment.
Mental health issues during and after pregnancy can affect a mother's physical health. Feelings of sadness, anxiety or hopelessness can lower quality of life. Without the right support and treatment, these issues can worsen.
A mother's mental health is very important for a child's early experience. It can impact a mother's ability to bond with her child and, if left untreated, cause issues for the child's development. Some examples include:
- Decreased social functioning
- Lowered academic performance
- Childhood/adolescent mental health disorders
- Increased risk of substance abuse
Help is available. Barriers can be broken down by normalizing conversations about maternal mental health and promoting access to resources. Mothers can also be encouraged to make their own well-being a priority. Here are some simple stress-relieving tips to get started:
- Take breaks: Motherhood is a journey. It can be hard at times, but don’t be hard on yourself. Take meditation breaks to reset your mindset.
- Go on walks: Walking is a great exercise during pregnancy. It improves mental health by boosting energy levels and mood. Remember to talk to your doctor before doing any exercise.
- Take time for yourself: Don’t forget about your own needs. Set dates with yourself to get pampered or enjoy hobbies. It’s also okay to get help. Find a support system that you can go to for rough days.
- Get some rest: Pregnancy takes a toll on your body. Sleep is a key part of a successful pregnancy, but also helps minimize stress levels.
- Eat healthy foods: We all know cravings are a real thing. It’s fine to treat yourself now and then but remember to keep a healthy balance.
If you experience emotional changes or think you may be depressed, talk to your doctor. Make an appointment as soon as possible to get the help you need. Most people get better with treatment. Getting help is the best thing you can do for you and your family.
Maternal mental health is key for the overall health of women and their families.
Aetna Better Health® of Illinois wants to make sure everyone has the support they need. You can set up a visit by calling your doctor’s office or Member Services at 1-866-329-4701 (TTY:711). If you or someone you know are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 for 24/7 connection to confidential support.