Perinatal Mental Health

Home » What We Treat » Perinatal Mental Health

Understanding Perinatal Mental Health

Perinatal mental health conditions are disorders that occur during pregnancy or within the first year after childbirth. They can affect mood, thoughts, and behavior, often interfering with daily functioning, self-care, or the ability to bond with a baby. While some conditions may be mild and temporary, others are more serious and require professional care.

According to recent studies, nearly 1 in 5 women experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder, making it one of the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth. These struggles can feel overwhelming, but with the right support and care, recovery is possible.

Common Perinatal Mental Health Conditions

At Emerald Wellness, we recognize the wide range of perinatal challenges and provide compassionate treatment for the following:

  • Perinatal Depression: Persistent sadness, fatigue, guilt, loss of interest, and difficulty bonding with the baby during pregnancy or postpartum.
  • Perinatal Anxiety Disorders: Excessive worry, panic attacks, or physical tension that interfere with daily functioning during the perinatal period.
  • Postpartum Psychosis: A rare but severe condition marked by delusions, hallucinations, confusion, or rapid mood swings, requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Bipolar Disorder: Mood shifts between mania and depression that may be triggered or worsened by hormonal changes during pregnancy or postpartum.
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Repetitive thoughts or compulsions related to the baby’s safety, health, or cleanliness.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Trauma-related symptoms after a difficult or traumatic birth experience or resurfacing of unresolved trauma.
  • Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder: Severe conditions that may worsen or co-occur during the perinatal period, requiring comprehensive support.

Why Treatment Matters

Perinatal mental health conditions are not a sign of weakness. They are real medical conditions that deserve understanding and treatment. Without care, they can disrupt family dynamics, prolong recovery after childbirth, and increase the risk of chronic mental health challenges.

Treatment helps parents manage symptoms, develop coping strategies, and strengthen resilience, while also supporting healthier family connections and stronger parent-child bonds. Seeking help is not only a step toward personal healing but also a powerful way to nurture a healthier start for both parent and child.

Our Approach to Treating Perinatal Mental Health

At Emerald Wellness, we understand the unique challenges that pregnancy and postpartum can bring. Our approach combines evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), with perinatal-focused psychoeducation, group support, and holistic practices like mindfulness, yoga, and art therapy.

Guided by a trauma-informed and person-centered philosophy, we tailor every plan to address both immediate symptoms and long-term well-being. Our safe and supportive environment empowers parents to manage mood, reduce anxiety, and strengthen coping skills, while also fostering resilience, connection, and confidence during this important stage of life.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your Questions About Perinatal Mental Health, Answered

It’s common to feel emotional changes after pregnancy, but if sadness, anxiety, or intrusive thoughts are persistent or interfere with daily life, it may be a sign of a perinatal mental health condition. A professional evaluation can help provide clarity and guidance.
Yes. Involving partners and family can provide additional support, education, and healthier communication, which benefits both the parent and child during recovery.
Many people benefit from therapy, support groups, and holistic practices. Medication may also be recommended in some cases, but treatment is always individualized to your needs and preferences.
You don’t need to wait for symptoms to worsen. If you notice persistent sadness, anxiety, or difficulty bonding with your baby, reaching out early can help you feel better sooner and support a healthier adjustment to parenthood.
No. In fact, getting the right support can strengthen your ability to care for yourself and your baby. Treatment helps restore balance, reduce stress, and improve your overall capacity to bond and parent effectively

Take the First Step Toward Healing

Struggling during or after pregnancy can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Emerald Wellness, we provide compassionate, specialized care to help parents find balance, healing, and renewed hope. Reach out today to start your journey toward recovery.

Emerald Wellness
APPOINTMENT

Get Your Online Consultation

Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Please let us know what's on your mind. Have a question for us? Ask away.

Our dedication lies not just in treating symptoms but in addressing the root causes, offering a holistic approach that integrates the best of therapeutic practices with the warmth of community support.