Perinatal Mental Health
Perinatal mental health refers to mental health ‘all around’ birth. From conceiving, throughout the pregnancy as well as the first year following birth. What you go through during pregnancy, postpartum and the early years of parenting is like no other stage in life. It’s a time of big changes, physically, emotionally and as a family structure. It can be both joyous and extremely challenging all at once, let us help you navigate this journey!
The term Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD) is used to describe distressing feelings that can occur throughout the perinatal time frame. Feelings can range from mild to severe. These feelings may include but are not limited to, increased anger, irritability, anxiety, difficulty sleeping & eating as well as having a hard time bonding with your baby. Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) include prenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar and psychosis.
The mental health and well-being of an expectant or new mother affects not only the mothers overall emotional well-being but can also impact her unborn, newborn, developing children, partner, wider family group and community. However, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders are much more common than you might think, and support is available.
In addition to the common challenges of pregnancy and the early years of parenthood, we also recognize that infant loss can profoundly impact mental health during this period. The grief and trauma associated with losing a child—whether in pregnancy, during birth, or in the first months of life—can leave parents feeling isolated, heartbroken, and uncertain about how to move forward. Greg offers compassionate support for those navigating the complexities of grief and loss, helping individuals and families process their emotions, find coping strategies, and begin to heal.