Over one in 5 women experience mental health struggles during pregnancy and postpartum, and they are the most common complications of pregnancy.
More than the "baby blues," perinatal depression and anxiety cause feelings of sadness, anxiety, or despair so intense that they keep people from being able to do their daily tasks. It can start during pregnancy, in the weeks after delivery to 1 year after. Pregnancy can also be associated with recurrence or worsening of previous mood disorders.
I'm a believer in the power of connection. In her book "The Connection Cure," author Julia Hotz discusses the "prescriptive" power of movement, nature, art, service and belonging. These connections can and should be a part of an overall plan to improve mental and physical wellbeing.
When appropriate, combined with medication management and referrals.