Pregnancy is one of life’s most profound and tender experiences. As your body, mind, and life begin to shift in preparation for welcoming a new child, the journey can feel both breathtakingly beautiful and deeply overwhelming. Amid doctor appointments, nursery plans, and emotional highs and lows, many pregnant people find themselves yearning for emotional balance and a steady support system.
Seeking therapy during this transformative chapter can be a powerful act of self-compassion. Whether you’re navigating daily stress, grief from past loss, or complex emotional shifts, therapeutic support can gently guide you through the mental and emotional layers of pregnancy. In this article, we’ll explore when therapy may be helpful, how to access it, and what you can do to nurture your mental wellness throughout this meaningful time.
Knowing When It’s Time to Seek Support
Although often portrayed as a time of glowing anticipation, pregnancy can also stir up anxiety, fear, and unexpected emotional weight. It’s perfectly natural to feel out of sorts as your identity and responsibilities evolve.
For some, these feelings become more than just passing worries. If your daily routine is being interrupted by persistent anxiety, whether that shows up as racing thoughts, shortness of breath, fatigue, or a sense of dread, it might be time to reach out for help. Anxiety disorders affect approximately 20 percent of pregnant individuals, and without support, they can significantly impact your daily life and well-being.
If you’ve experienced pregnancy loss or complications in the past, pregnancy may feel emotionally complicated. Grief, fear, traumatic responses, and guilt often resurface in future pregnancies. Speaking with a therapist can help you work through these feelings, honor your past experiences, and build resilience as you move forward.
Finding the Right Resources for Mental Health Care
If you recognize that you may benefit from additional support, know that help is closer than you think. Don’t hesitate to speak with your OB/GYN or midwife about how you’re feeling emotionally. These healthcare professionals often have direct connections to mental health specialists, therapists, or doulas trained in perinatal care. Doulas, in particular, are a wonderful resource. They offer emotional, physical, and informational support, not just during labor but throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
You may also find comfort in joining a motherhood support group. These gatherings, whether in-person or virtual, allow you to connect with others going through similar experiences. Some groups are led by licensed therapists, while others offer peer-to-peer sharing that reminds you that you’re not alone. If individual therapy feels intimidating at first, these group settings can be a gentle introduction to mental health support.
Cristeta Rillera Is Here To Help
Pregnancy asks a lot from you, physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s okay to need help along the way. By leaning into therapy, you’re nurturing both yourself and your baby in the most loving way possible. Reach out to Cristeta Rillera to receive virtual or in-person counseling services in the Woodland, CA area.
