The Stigma Around Therapy: Breaking the Silence

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By Jaslyn Bush | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by Antoni Shkraba Studio on Pexels.com

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of mental health issues and the importance of seeking therapy. However, despite progress in raising awareness, a significant stigma still surrounds mental health therapy, preventing many individuals from seeking the help they need.

The stigma around therapy often stems from societal misconceptions and stereotypes. Many people still believe that seeking mental health therapy is a sign of weakness or that it is only for those with severe mental illnesses (Corrigan, 2004). This perception is far from the truth. Therapy can be a valuable tool for anyone facing life’s challenges, whether they are dealing with stress, relationship issues, or personal growth.

The Impact of Stigma
Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help, leading to untreated mental health issues that can worsen over time (Vogel, Wade, & Haake, 2006). Additionally, the fear of being judged or misunderstood can cause individuals to suffer in silence, further exacerbating their struggles. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), there are 3 kinds of stigma:

Public Stigma: This stigma can be described as negative and inaccurate attitudes about a mental illness from the public (Singhal, 2024). There is a fear that one may experience discrimination i employment, housing, health care, etc. due to one being diagnosed with a mental illness.

Self-Stigma: This includes negative attitudes, including internalized shame of their condition. Self-stigma can lead to lower self-esteem issues and reduce self-confidence.

Structural Stigma: Involves policies of government and private organizations that intentionally or unintentionally limit opportunities for people for people with mental illness (Singhal, 2024). If the federal government or state and local municipalities reduce funding for mental health services and programs, then individuals in need of care will not have less opportunity to receive the care and support they need.

Breaking the Silence
To combat the stigma around therapy, professionals in health and human services must promote open and honest conversations about mental health. Education is key; providing accurate information about the benefits of therapy and debunking common myths, in order to change societal attitudes (Corrigan & Watson, 2002). Additionally, sharing personal stories and experiences can help normalize therapy and encourage others to seek help.

The stigma around therapy is a significant barrier to mental health care. By understanding its roots, recognizing its impact, and taking steps to promote open conversations, we can work towards a society where seeking therapy is thought of as a sign of strength and self-care. If you or someone you know has experienced challenges with mental and emotional health, consider sharing your thoughts and perspectives in the comments below and engage with us on Facebook at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab.

References

Corrigan, P. W. (2004). How stigma interferes with mental health care. American Psychologist, 59(7), 614-625. 

Corrigan, P. W., & Watson, A. C. (2002). Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental illness. World Psychiatry, 1(1), 16-20. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/)

Vogel, D. L., Wade, N. G., & Haake, S. (2006). Measuring the self-stigma associated with seeking psychological help. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 53(3), 325-337. [

Kalkbrenner, M. T., & Esparza, S. (2022). Barriers to seeking counseling among a national sample of U.S. physicians: The revised fit, stigma, and value scale. The Professional Counselor, 15(2), 123-137.

Melnyk, B. M., Kelly, S. A., & Jacobson, D. (2020). Reducing stigma and promoting mental health in healthcare professionals: An integrative review. Journal of Nursing Management, 28(5), 1020-1030.

Singhal, N. (2024, March). Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination Against People with Mental Illness. American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination

Growing Together: Fostering Social Health in Birmingham Teens

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Adolescence is about more than growing up, it’s about growing together. Social health meaningful connections, belonging, and supportive relationships is a critical foundation for teens well-being. Here in Birmingham, fostering these connections can help our youth build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

Why It Matters Locally

Positive social connections promote mental health, reduce risky behaviors, and enhance academic success (CDC, 2023). Yet, national studies show that high social media usage among teens increases exposure to cyberbullying and feelings of isolation (CDC, 2023). Locally, rising mental health concerns among Birmingham teens underscore the importance of in-person social support and engagement (Children’s of Alabama, 2022).

Community Programs That Strengthen Bonds

  • Hope Squad: A peer-supported suicide prevention initiative in Birmingham schools that teaches students to recognize and respond when friends are struggling emotionally (Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, 2024).
  • Magic City Acceptance Center (MCAC): Since 2014, MCAC has served over 650 LGBTQ youth ages 13–24 in Birmingham through drop-in support, art programs, free counseling, and events like Queer Prom.
  • TAKE Resource Center & Magic City Wellness Center: TAKE provides peer support, outreach, and legal aid for trans youth, while Magic City Wellness Center offers inclusive primary care, HIV/STD services, and gender-affirming care—bolstering both emotional and physical well-being.

How Families and Schools Can Build Social Health

  1. Encourage Face-to-Face Activities
  2. Promote participation in school clubs, faith-based groups, or community events. These in-person interactions help teens form meaningful bonds and foster belonging.
  3. Balance Digital Engagement
  4. Guide teens toward thoughtful use of social media while providing alternatives like youth-led groups or creative classes that build connection without screens.
  5. Support Peer-Led Initiatives
  6. Programs like Hope Squad empower teens to create supportive school environments. Encourage schools and parent groups to adopt or expand such initiatives.
  7. Champion Inclusive Spaces
  8. Back local centers like MCAC and the Wellness Center that promote acceptance. Advocate for safe environments connected to identity, mental health, and peer belonging.

The Bottom Line

Healthy social connections shape flourishing adolescents. Birmingham is rich in resources that build connection—peer support, inclusive centers, and school-based initiatives. By combining safe digital habits, community programs, and family support, we help our teens grow socially strong and confidently connected.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Adolescent connectedness. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/protective/connectedness/index.htm

Children’s of Alabama. (2022). Community health needs assessment: Mental and behavioral health. https://www.childrensal.org/sites/default/files/2022-12/CHNA-REPORT-22.pdf

Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham. (2024). Hope Squad: Improving mental health in children and youth. https://www.cfbham.org/news/hope-squad-improving-mental-health-in-children-and-youth/

Maternal Mental Health: Breaking Barriers to Care

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Becoming a mom is life-changing, but it isn’t always easy. Many women experience postpartum depression, anxiety, or though less common postpartum psychosis after giving birth. These challenges are more common than most people realize, yet too often moms suffer in silence because of stigma, missed screenings, or not having access to care that feels supportive and culturally understanding. The truth is that untreated maternal mental health struggles don’t just affect moms, they can also impact babies and the whole family’s well-being (CDC, 2024).

Magnitude of the Problem

Approximately 20% of women experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder, yet fewer than half receive treatment (CDC, 2024). The consequences are profound: children of mothers with untreated depression may face developmental, behavioral, and emotional challenges. Maternal suicide, though often preventable, remains a leading cause of death in the first year after birth (Healthy People 2030, n.d.). Additionally, structural barriers, such as cost, lack of transportation, and limited provider availability disproportionately affect women in low-income and minority communities, compounding existing health disparities (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2023).

Solutions

  • Healthcare Integration: Universal screening for perinatal mental health disorders during prenatal visits, postpartum check-ups, and pediatric appointments can increase early detection.
  • Community-Based Programs: Local organizations can create safe spaces for peer support, parenting groups, and culturally sensitive counseling services that reduce stigma.
  • Policy & Systems Change: Expanding insurance coverage for maternal mental health services and investing in maternal health equity initiatives are essential steps. The Healthy People 2030 framework highlights reducing maternal morbidity and improving access to timely mental health care as national priorities (Healthy People 2030, n.d.).

What Families and Communities Can Do

  • Recognize Risk Factors: Women with a history of depression, limited social support, or stressful life events are at higher risk. Families should remain attentive to these signs.
  • Encourage Open Dialogue: Normalizing conversations about maternal mental health helps reduce stigma. Partners and relatives play a crucial role in encouraging women to seek care.
  • Leverage Resources: The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-9-HELP4MOMS) and local health departments provide 24/7 confidential support.
  • Advocate Locally: Communities can advocate for expanded maternal mental health services at hospitals and clinics, especially in underserved areas.

Conclusion

Maternal mental health is a cornerstone of women’s health and family well-being. By addressing barriers to care, investing in culturally tailored services, and fostering supportive environments, we can create a future where every mother has the resources she needs to thrive.

References

Bureau of Justice Statistics. (2023). Indicators of health disparities in the United States. https://bjs.ojp.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Depression among women. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/depression/index.htm

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Maternal, infant, and child health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

5. The Silent Struggle: Mental Health and Unwanted Pregnancy Among Alabama’s Teen Girls

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Introduction

When we talk about teen pregnancy, we often focus on the physical and financial burdens—but what about the emotional toll? Unwanted pregnancy can be overwhelming for any young person, leading to feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, and isolation. In Alabama, where reproductive health resources and mental health services are limited, many young mothers struggle in silence, unsure of where to turn.

I know that feeling all too well. At 17, I was pregnant and in complete denial. I convinced myself it wasn’t real, and by the time I accepted the truth, I was already about to give birth. The emotional weight of it all hit me hard. I felt alone, ashamed, and scared of what my future would look like. The stigma surrounding teen pregnancy made it even harder to ask for help. But the reality is, no one should have to go through this alone.

The Link Between Unwanted Pregnancy and Mental Health

Research shows that teen mothers are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health disorders. According to a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, pregnant teens are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety than their non-pregnant peers (Journal of Adolescent Health, 2023). Factors contributing to this include:

  • Social stigma and judgment – Many young mothers face harsh criticism from their families, peers, and communities.
  • Emotional distress and regret – The sudden shift in life plans can trigger depression and feelings of hopelessness.
  • Lack of support systems – Without emotional or financial support, teen moms often feel abandoned and overwhelmed.
  • Postpartum depression – The hormonal changes following childbirth can contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and severe depression.

Barriers to Mental Health Care in Alabama

Alabama ranks among the worst states for mental healthcare access, especially for low-income and rural populations. Many young mothers do not have health insurance or the transportation needed to attend therapy appointments. Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health prevents many teens from seeking help. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly 60% of teens experiencing depression in the U.S. do not receive treatment (KFF, 2023).

For young mothers, untreated mental health issues can lead to long-term consequences, such as difficulty bonding with their child, substance abuse, and even suicidal thoughts. The pressure of raising a baby while dealing with internal struggles can feel unbearable, yet so many teens suffer in silence because they believe they have no options.

How Can We Support the Mental Health of Teen Mothers?

  1. Expanding Access to Therapy and Counseling – Schools and community health centers should offer free, confidential counseling for pregnant teens.
  2. Reducing Stigma Through Education – Normalizing conversations about teen pregnancy and mental health can encourage young mothers to seek help.
  3. Creating Peer Support Networks – Support groups for teen mothers can provide emotional encouragement and reduce feelings of isolation.
  4. Integrating Mental Health into Prenatal and Postpartum Care – Every pregnant teen should have access to mental health screenings and resources.

Conclusion

The emotional impact of unwanted pregnancy is just as significant as the physical and financial burdens. As someone who has experienced the fear and uncertainty of being a pregnant teenager, I know how important mental health support is. Alabama must do more to ensure that young mothers receive the care and understanding they deserve. By expanding access to therapy, reducing stigma, and providing safe spaces for teens to seek help, we can prevent unnecessary suffering and create better futures for both young mothers and their children.

References

  • Journal of Adolescent Health. (2023). The impact of pregnancy on adolescent mental health. Retrieved from www.jahonline.org
  • Kaiser Family Foundation. (2023). Teen mental health and access to care in the U.S. Retrieved from www.kff.org

Parents and schools can work together to improve adolescent mental health

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By Travia Martin | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Although thought to be light and carefree, the adolescent years leading into adulthood are significant to the development of a child and their preparation into adulthood. From physical health, emotional health, mental health and other domains of wellness, these years are important as young people begin to take on adult like responsibilities. According to World Health Organization (n.d.), children ages 10-19 at some point may experience health issues related to the following poor hygiene, partaking in behaviors involving alcohol and drug use, unsafe sex, abuse, and teen pregnancy. While every area of health is important for the proper development of adolescents, mental health may be one of the categories often overlooked and underserved. For example, depression and anxiety have the most impact on this age group in relation to illness with suicide being the leading cause of death among those 15-19 (WHO, 2023). 1.1 million adolescents die each year, whether it be traffic accidents, violence, or self-inflicted harm.

School health programs should be championed and supported in middle and high schools to support adolescent development. Why? First, we should consider that in the U.S., fifty-six million students spend at least 6 hours a day at school, receiving social, physical, and intellectual development (CDC, 2021). Within your community, are you aware of the programs, activities, and group organizations that offer support to your middle and high school adolescence? Supplying mental health support and assistance within schools may elevate awareness, guidance and understanding of such complex health issues among adolescents. Additionally, social media plays a role in adolescent development, because young people see and do what they are taught or have learned, picked up through observational learning while constantly viewing social media on their electronic devices.

Whether you are a parent or an educator, there are several behaviors you can implement into your home, school, organization, etc. to help support and aid the development of adolescents and their mental health. Minor changes like spending more time engaging with young people through face-to-face conversation and allowing them to express their feelings mentally and emotionally, can aid positively to overall health and well-being (CDC, 2021). Removing teens and young adults from environments or locations that are toxic and filled with trauma to more peaceful and positive environments are also important. Supporting pro-social behaviors to express ones emotions such as art, writing, or even support groups involving peers of the same age is also important. Adolescent therapy and counseling are additional tools that can support the development of their mental health and create positive influence among their behaviors and actions (CDC, 2021).

What about you? Did you experience tough times during your adolescent years? What tips would you give to teenagers and young adults today? Leave a comment here or join the discussion at @WilkinsonWellnessLab on Facebook.

References:

Adolescent and young adult health. (n.d.). Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescents-health-risks-and-solutions#:~:text=Depression%20and%20anxiety%20are%20among

CDC. (2021, April 23). Mental health of children and parents—A strong connection. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/features/mental-health-children-and-parents.html

COVID-19 Pandemic Associated with Worse Mental Health and Accelerated Brain Development in Adolescents. (2023, January 26). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2023/covid-19-pandemic-associated-with-worse-mental-health-and-accelerated-brain-development-in-adolescents#:~:text=The%20two%20groups%20differed%20significantly

National Library of Medicine. (2022). CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH. In http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK587174/

Why schools? | adolescent and school health | CDC. (2021, June 8). https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/about/why_schools.htm


Depression and Relationships

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Alex Green on Pexels.com

Mental health illnesses affect how a person relates to other people. Depression causes a person to have sudden mood changes that are barriers to nourishing long-term relationships. For instance, extreme anger or anxiety can scare away a potential partner. Also, family members may fail to understand that a person is battling depression and distance themselves. Ultimately, a person experiences feelings of loneliness and detachment from loved ones. Nevertheless, people can seek professional interventions like counseling to prevent depression from affecting their relationships.

Many people dealing with mental health issues are unaware of their conditions. Hence, they engage in actions whose consequences are dire but cannot explain why they do so. A person suffering from depression is likely to experience detachment. This feeling is present in how they respond to attempts by their partner to show love. For instance, one may ignore their spouse’s calls because they feel detached. Eventually, this act becomes a habit that could be a deal breaker for the other partner. Also, a depressed person may feel unwanted and unappreciated. Subsequently, they may decide to stay away from loved ones and cut communication. Over time, one experiences extreme loneliness that affects the progression of a relationship (Zhang et al., 2021). Thus, it is critical to seek professional advice if one suspects they are experiencing depression.

Ignoring mental health disorders results in severe consequences. A person suffering from depression can take several actions to prevent the issue from interfering with their relationship. First, one can inform their loved one of their current emotional state. By doing so, the partner understands the situation and supports the person. Secondly, an individual should consult a professional and embrace a treatment plan. Thus, the causes of depression are determined, and its effects are lessened. Consequently, one heals from the condition, leads a fruitful life, and forms healthy relationships.

References

Zhang, Y., Huang, L., Luo, Y., & Ai, H. (2021). The relationship between state loneliness and depression among youths during COVID-19 lockdown: Coping style as mediator. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.701514

Sadness Can Turn into Depression

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Liza Summer on Pexels.com

Sadness is an emotion that manifests through sorrow or unhappiness. It can be mild or severe, depending on the cause. Typically, the loss of something considered important triggers sadness. For instance, the death of a loved one may result in sorrow. While it is normal to experience unhappiness sometimes, it may become excessive and adversely affect daily living. Overthinking, inactivity, and self-criticism due to sadness can morph into depression, and individuals must adopt interventions to salvage the situation.

There are various ways in which sadness can turn into depression. Individuals repeatedly think about bad things when having low moods. This act is due to the desire to understand the reasons behind the happenings and the intention to counter the negative feelings. Unfortunately, overthinking magnifies depressed moods (Kecmanovic, 2020). Hence, instead of dwelling on things that increase sadness, individuals should focus on what can be done about depressing events.

Often, sadness makes people inactive. For instance, some individuals neglect their activities of daily living and opt to stay in bed. While this act is meant to help one escape their negative emotions, it may spur severe depression (Kecmanovic, 2020). In essence, restricting movement and avoiding social interactions leads to loneliness, which makes one prone to this mental disorder. Thus, individuals dealing with sadness should strive to remain active.

The current state of a person may trigger feelings of sadness. Failure to salvage the situation turns this emotion into depression. For instance, one may blame themselves for missing a dream job and experiencing unhappiness. When self-criticism and perfectionism escalate, one becomes depressed (Kecmanovic, 2020). Thus, it is critical to embrace self-compassion regardless of one’s situation. Individuals can achieve this stance by acknowledging their emotions, then directing care and understanding to themselves. By extending compassion, kindness, support, and warmth to oneself, a person evades depression.

Reference

Kecmanovic, J. (2020, December 1). Perspective | how to keep your sadness from turning into depression. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/sadness-depression-stopping-getting-worse/2020/11/27/b5fa88c8-0e3f-11eb-8074-0e943a91bf08_story.html

Why Is It Hard to Focus When You Are Depressed?

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by lil artsy on Pexels.com

For an individual to remain focused, they must be in an enabling mental space. Individuals who suffer from depression struggle to concentrate on critical matters due to several factors. According to Villalobos et al. (2021), mood disorders interfere with normal functioning. As such, individuals feel demotivated and do not attempt to complete daily tasks. Depression makes people unwilling to engage in any activity. For instance, a person may find it hard to clean their space or take a shower. Also, it impairs mental processing speed, thus minimizing the ability to absorb information. Subsequently, one forgets important details and appears less concerned. While this could be alarming to some people, others do not understand that one requires medical attention and remain aloof.

Depression is one of the issues that affect performance in school and workplaces. Individuals cannot focus because of mood instabilities (Villalobos et al., 2021). For instance, an individual could be in class but fails to concentrate. This aspect is known as presenteeism and presents through loss of productivity despite being physically available. In the long run, it results in stress and burnout, which worsen depression. Also, people may fail to focus due to overthinking. Depressed patients tend to focus on the underlying issue, which takes away from present happenings. Anxiety resulting from depression makes one uncertain about the future. Consequently, this affects an individual’s thoughts and leads to a loss of concentration regarding current events. While one may ignore the issues as an escape, it does not offer a lasting solution.

A patient-centered approach is critical in treating depression. As healthcare professionals work to restore an individual’s well-being, the latter should participate in several ways. For instance, one can attend therapy sessions where a mental health practitioner helps them to deal with underlying issues that lead to depression. Also, a patient can choose to live a day at a time. This move allows one to forget their problems and concentrate on critical matters. Nevertheless, patients must seek long-term solutions to heal fully and remain focused.

References

Villalobos, D., Pacios, J., & Vázquez, C. (2021). Cognitive control, cognitive biases and emotion regulation in depression: A new proposal for an integrative Interplay Model. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.628416

Let’s Beat Depression by Eating Healthy

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by Darina Belonogova on Pexels.com

There is a connection between depression and diet. Overindulging in processed and fast foods may result in this mental health issue. Aubrey and Chatterjee (2019) opine that it is critical to embrace healthy eating habits to improve outcomes. Also, individuals who mask their feelings through overeating should seek professional help and adhere to the doctor’s instructions. For example, attending therapy sessions can ascertain why a patient prefers fast foods to a healthy diet. After identifying the cause, a healthcare practitioner can advise the patient concerning the best intervention.

Overconsuming processed food increases the chance of contracting depression. An individual becomes susceptible to recurring mood swings and a heightened inability to focus (Aubrey & Chatterjee, 2019). Subsequently, these behaviors make them unable to concentrate on critical issues and affect their relationships. A person becomes withdrawn and shuns their loved ones, resulting in loneliness which could lead to depression. Thus, individuals should consume nutrient-rich foods that improve concentration and limit mood swings. Wholegrain, unprocessed meals allow one to balance vitamins, nutrients, fiber, minerals, and fatty acids. Thus, an individual stays healthy and feels good.

The type of food a person indulges in determines their general well-being. Mentally, overconsuming saturated and refined fats worsens the symptoms of depression and impairs brain function (Aubrey & Chatterjee, 2019). Therefore, one cannot make appropriate decisions and lacks concentration. An unhealthy diet also affects an individual physically. For instance, often consuming fast food leads to excessive weight gain. This aspect leads to a negative body image which affects one’s self-esteem. To alter the situation, a patient should embrace a healthy diet alongside seeking professional health.

We can beat depression by eating healthily. Ensuring that meals are balanced and eliminating overprocessed foods will enhance patient outcomes. Avoiding instances that lead to binge eating will shape our consumption habits and prevent us from contracting depression. Subsequently, healthy eating should be encouraged because it helps beat depression.

Reference

Aubrey, A., & Chatterjee, R. (2019, October 9). Changing your diet can help Tamp down depression, boost mood. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2019/10/09/768665411/changing-your-diet-can-help-tamp-down-depression-boost-mood

Depression and Pregnancy

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By Terrie Johnson| UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Amina Filkins on Pexels.com

The prevalence of depression in expectant mothers is high. This mental health disorder affects pregnant women and presents through fatigue, loss of appetite, suicidal ideation, and hopelessness, among other signs. The causes of depression during pregnancy are diverse and vary among individuals. For some people, this condition emanates from life-related uncertainties. For instance, unplanned pregnancies are stressful and often shake relationships. Thus, a woman may become depressed if her partner leaves and she is unsure if she can take care of the baby by herself. Also, one may have lost a previous pregnancy or child and is afraid that the events could reoccur. Thus, it is critical for would-be parents to seek psychotherapy before and during pregnancy to make the process smoother.

Depression in pregnant women can also occur due to pregnancy-related complications. During pregnancy, the body produces hormones that help with fetal growth. However, they are responsible for severe mood swings in some women. Negative mood changes accompanying pregnancy can turn into depression if they are not controlled. For example, one may have chronic, unexplained sadness. Failure to seek professional help results in depression because the body cannot regulate moods effectively during pregnancy. Moreover, physical pain in limbs or muscles during pregnancy can become chronic, which leads to depression.

While maternal depression can occur in patients who have never had this condition, those who have had it before are at a higher risk. According to Jahan et al. (2021), it affects fetal well-being and could result in preterm birth, low birth weight, or neurodevelopmental issues. Thus, expectant mothers should prioritize mental health by focusing on the positive outcomes of pregnancy. Regardless of the challenges, the result of pregnancy is a beautiful baby. Therefore, concentrating on what one can control protects the child and mother from physical and emotional turmoil. For example, women can engage in activities that make them look forward to having the baby, like shopping and knitting infant garments. Finally, one could spend time with other parents or attend child-care classes if they doubt their parenting abilities.

If you think you might have depression during pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider about how you feel to determine your next steps. You are not alone.

Reference

Jahan, N., Went, T. R., Sultan, W., Sapkota, A., Khurshid, H., Qureshi, I. A., & Alfonso, M. (2021). Untreated depression during pregnancy and its effect on pregnancy outcomes: A systematic review. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.17251