Finding Support for Perinatal Mental Health Struggles

Thrive • November 20, 2020

New Parents and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Whether going through pregnancy or the adoption process, new parents undergo a rollercoaster ride of emotions as they welcome baby(ies) into their lives. This significant life change isn’t always straightforward or easy to process. Some new parents must deal with difficult birth experiences, unresolved trauma, and fears related to being a parent. Many new parents struggle to bond with their baby, face severe mood imbalances, and struggle to completely welcome the change into their lives.

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect many new parents during the perinatal period, which lasts from pregnancy up to one year following birth. PMADs can refer to depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and PTSD during the perinatal period. The term “baby blues,” has a milder connotation than PMADs and can describe similar symptoms, but usually resolve within two weeks. If you are a new parent who feels like the “baby blues,” are interfering with your ability to function normally, you may be struggling with something more severe — a PMAD. Many new parents struggling with mood imbalances feel isolated, guilty, ashamed and judged. They are not alone. There are many new parents that are coping with similar struggles.

Processing Perinatal Loss and Grief

The loss of a pregnancy or infant is often thought of as a disenfranchised loss. Disenfranchised loss and grief is any loss that is not universally recognized as a significant loss by society. When a loss goes unacknowledged or is minimized or invalidated, it is difficult for the person who is grieving to process and heal.

For example, if someone loses a parent, spouse, or grown child, it is recognized as a significant loss. But when someone suffers the loss of a pet, a job, or related to the perinatal period… miscarriage, stillbirth, molar pregnancy, or even infertility struggles, most people do not recognize the loss as significant because “the child was not born yet”. People might respond with sentiments like, “At least this happened now, before you got to know the baby and become attached.” Or, if an individual were to lose an infant, people may react by saying, “At least it happened early, you can always try again.”

Loss is painful no matter what the stage of life is in which it occurs. Everyone has their own healing process, which usually requires support from others. “There is no one way to grieve.” says Thrive Clinical Director Celia Zisman. “You have to teach people how to be with you, how to treat you and react to you.” Grief can feel lonely, especially when the loss feels minimized by society. You don’t have to grieve alone. Our specialists, programs and support groups offer avenues to processing and healing from the loss of a pregnancy or infant, as well as other disenfranchised losses such as those due to infertility and reproductive issues, as well as struggles with adoption.

Let’s Thrive Together!

Our new intensive outpatient program for perinatal mental health is called “It Takes a Village”. This program is designed for parents struggling with PMADs, trouble bonding with baby, and adjusting to parenthood. Parents have so much to adjust to, and sometimes one hour of therapy each week is not enough. This program meets five days a week. In addition to individual therapy, the program includes different group therapy activities which are evidenced-based to aid in the recovery process. Being surrounded by people going through similar situations as you is extremely beneficial to help support you and get you on the road to recovery.

Thrive also offers two free support groups for individuals struggling with perinatal mental health. One is specifically tailored to those struggling with grief and loss related to a miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, early infant death, molar pregnancies and/or other complications. The other group is intended for parents struggling through pregnancy, postpartum, baby blues and other mental health challenges in the perinatal period.

Zisman often relays the quote by Postpartum International: “You are not alone, you are not to blame, and with help you will get better.” It is okay to feel overwhelmed. It is okay to grieve. It is okay to not be okay. Thrive is here for you. We want to support you and help you heal. Start thriving with us today! Call us at 775-525-8103 to learn more about our perinatal mental health programs and support groups.

The post Finding Support for Perinatal Mental Health Struggles first appeared on Thrive Wellness.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

3 Adolescent Mental Health Red Flags Providers Should Watch for During Summer

June 27, 2025

How school breaks can mask or amplify eating disorders, anxiety, and OCD symptoms and how to intervene

Navigating Coming Out: Emotional Wellness Tips for Every Stage

June 4, 2025

Coming out is a deeply personal, courageous, and in many cases, life-changing act. Whether you're sharing your sexual orientation or gender identity, coming out is about embracing authenticity and sharing an essential part of who you are. During the process of coming out, prioritizing your mental health at every stage is crucial. In this blog, we'll discuss insights and strategies to support your mental health before, during, and after coming out. Wherever you are in your journey, know that your experience is valid and you are not alone. Understanding the Mental Impact of Coming Out Coming out can bring about a lot of big feelings, including fear, relief, joy, anxiety, grief, and hope, sometimes all at once. Know that heightened emotions during this time are completely normal. Sharing such an integral part of yourself with the world can feel intense, but even with the ups and downs, being authentically you is worth it. Because LGBTQIA+ individuals face added mental health burdens due to stigma and discrimination, taking care of yourself during this time is more important than ever. You might experience increased anxiety, mental exhaustion, or avoidance ahead of coming out, so don’t be afraid to reach out for support. At its core, coming out is about authentic self-expression and showing your truest self, which can feel both exciting and scary at the same time . The self-acceptance and community gained from coming out is a vital part of finding long-term strength and joy. Still, it’s okay if you feel uncertain or conflicted, and these feelings are just part of the process. Before Coming Out: Emotional Preparation Coming out starts with reflection. Remember that there’s no rush when it comes to figuring out who you are. It’s okay to take time to understand your identity and what coming out might mean for you. Here are a few questions to consider: What do I hope to gain by coming out? Who feels emotionally safe to talk to? What are my fears, and how can I manage them? Mental wellness tips before coming out: Journaling can help you better understand your feelings and fears and explore different ways to share your truth. Talking through your feelings and different scenarios with a therapist , especially one who is LGBTQIA+ affirming, can help you to feel more supported and ready to come out. Practice grounding techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or visualization to ease anxiety ahead of sharing your identity. Helpful resources for coming out include: Trevor Project Lifeline (1-866-488-7386) TrevorSpace (an online community for LGBTQIA+ youth) OurCenter (a local community center for the LGBTQIA+ community in Reno) During the Coming Out Process: Staying Grounded The act of coming out can feel intimidating, as you’re sharing such a vital part of who you are. You might experience fear, panic, or doubt. While these feelings are real, know that you don’t have to navigate them alone. Tips for emotional resilience: Practice conversations ahead of time with a therapist or supportive friend so you feel ready when the time comes to share. Choose a time and place where you feel safe and in control. Use affirming statements, like, “I deserve to be loved for who I am.” Coping with negative responses: Set emotional boundaries with people who aren’t supportive. Create an emotional safety plan: know who you can call, where you can go, and what can help soothe you in moments of distress. After Coming Out: Processing and Healing Coming out, no matter how it went, deserves to be celebrated. An act of strength and authenticity like coming out is no small feat, so be proud of yourself for sharing who you are. Even so, the emotional aftermath can be complicated. You might feel joy and empowerment or loss and grief, especially if relationships shift. Healing strategies: Acknowledge your courage . Even difficult conversations are acts of strength. Rebuild your safety if you've experienced rejection. This might mean changing your environment or seeking new support systems. Release guilt or shame. Being who you are is never something you should feel ashamed or guilty for. Support networks can make a huge difference. Seek out different forms of support like: LGBTQIA+ support groups (in-person or online) Peer mentors or community leaders Allies, friends, or family who affirm and respect your identity Therapeutic options to deal with stress, grief, or isolation associated with coming out: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can help process trauma. Narrative therapy helps you rewrite your story in your own empowering voice. Coming Out More Than Once: Navigating the Long Game Coming out isn’t just a single milestone, it’s a recurring process. You might come out again and again: to a healthcare provider, a neighbor, a partner, or a friend. It can feel exhausting or unfair to have to come out more than once, but each time, you’ll continue to find more strength, confidence, and understanding for yourself. Other tips for coming out: Focus on cultivating a strong inner identity that doesn’t rely on external validation. You know who you are, and you don’t need to prove yourself to anyone. Create a personal toolkit of coping and grounding strategies to deal with stress or burn-out associated with coming out. Thrive Wellness offers a free breathing exercise guide to help relieve anxiety and calm the nervous system. Download it here . Find affirmation and support through community. This can look like finding a chosen family, looking up to queer role models, attending events that celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and its history, and working on embracing authenticity and having pride in who you are. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to coming out, and it’s never too late to share who you are. Whether you're preparing to come out, in the midst of sharing your truth, or processing what came after, know that you are worthy of love, safety, and joy. Your truth is worth celebrating, today and everyday! For support during the coming out process and beyond, reach out to our team of affirming, inclusive, and compassionate mental and physical health care providers. We're here for you.

10 Simple Actions to Improve Your Mental Health

May 15, 2025

Taking steps to protect and maintain good mental health is key to living your best life. Whether it's managing stress, building emotional resilience, or simply finding a moment of peace during your busy day, developing a set of strategies to protect your mental health is essential. This Mental Health Awareness Month is all about turning action into awareness, so why not take action today to care for yourself and improve your mental health? This guide outlines ten impactful activities you can incorporate into your daily routine to boost your mental health starting today. By incorporating these activities into your days, you can take control of your mental health journey, grow personally, and improve your relationship with yourself and others. Why is Taking Action for Your Mental Health Important? Understanding the significance of proactive mental health care can change how we treat ourselves and move through our everyday lives. Taking action for yourself not only improves your overall well-being but also helps prevent existing or potential issues from becoming more severe. When you prioritize your mental health, you’ll feel a greater sense of happiness and productivity, paving the way for stronger relationships and a fuller, more enjoyable life. Focusing on your mental health is not just about problem-solving, but about living in a balanced and fulfilling way that supports your overall well-being and ability to thrive. 10 Effective Activities for Improving Your Mental Health It’s essential to have a repertoire of activities on hand that can boost your mental health. Simple activities like sleeping enough, meditating, spending time with a friend, or seeing a therapist can have huge impacts on your overall mental wellness. Prioritizing your mental health doesn’t have to be complicated or difficult, it’s just about doing activities that make you feel joyful, relaxed, or energized, fueling a better outlook on life overall. Here are 10 activities you can do today to help your brain and body to feel their best: 1. Mindful Practices Practicing mindfulness is a simple yet impactful step you can take in improving and protecting your mental health. Mindfulness practices include activities like meditating and mindful breathing to calm the mind and reconnect with the body. Meditation and breathing exercises are shown to reduce stress, improve focus, and grow your self-awareness. For more breathing exercises for anxiety relief, download our free guide “Breathe Easy” . 2. Eating Intuitively Eating intuitively is a powerful way to boost your energy and mood and reduce stress around food, helping to improve your overall mental health. This approach encourages a healthy relationship with food by promoting balance, variety, and pleasure without guilt. Intuitive eating helps you recognize and respond to your body's signals, leading to more mindful and satisfying eating experiences. By focusing on how foods make you feel, both physically and emotionally, you can make healthier choices that nourish your body and mind. Adequate nutrition has been shown to support brain function, improve mood, and reduce the risk of mental health conditions. 3. Sleep Hygiene Practicing good sleep hygiene is essential for maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine helps regulate your sleep patterns, ensuring you get the deep sleep your body needs. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day if possible. Quality sleep is vital for cognitive function, emotional stability, and physical health, making good sleep hygiene a key component of wellness. 4. Mindful Movement Doing movement that you enjoy can have massive impacts on your mental health. Exercise reduces stress by triggering the release of endorphins, which have mood-lifting and pain-relieving effects. It also helps regulate hormones like cortisol, improving the body's ability to handle stress. By simply incorporating enjoyable movement into your routine a few times a week, you’ll see improvements in both your mental and physical health. 5. Go Outside Spending time outside can support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It allows you to disconnect from everyday stressors, reconnect with the natural world, and experience a sense of tranquility and peace. Spending time in nature has been linked to reduced anxiety, improved mood, and increased mindfulness. Make time to explore outdoor environments such as parks, forests, beaches, or gardens. Practice mindfulness while in nature, focusing on the scenery and sounds that surround you. Incorporating nature into your daily routine can provide a refreshing break from everyday life, improving your mental health. 6. Make Time for Creative Pursuits Creative activities can be a great outlet for self-expression and reducing stress. Creativity allows you to explore new ideas, solve problems, and connect with your inner self. Even dedicating just 10 minutes a day to creative pursuits can have a positive impact on your mental health. Activities like drawing, painting, journaling, or crafting can help you unwind and stimulate your mind. Creative expression can also improve mood, enhance cognitive function, and foster a sense of accomplishment. 7. Practice Positive Self-talk Positive self-talk is a powerful habit that involves speaking to yourself in a kind, supportive, and encouraging manner. It's about cultivating a positive mindset and nurturing self-compassion. By shifting negative thoughts and beliefs to positive affirmations, you can boost your self-esteem and overall well-being. Practice acknowledging your strengths, accomplishments, and perseverance, even in challenging situations. 8. Practice Social Wellness Social wellness is about nurturing meaningful connections with others and fostering a supportive network of relationships. It involves engaging in positive interactions, building trust, and offering and receiving support. Cultivating social wellness contributes to emotional resilience, reduces feelings of isolation, and promotes overall happiness. Take time to connect with friends and family members regularly, whether through phone calls, video chats, or in-person gatherings. 9. Do Something for You Making time for yourself is crucial for maintaining life balance and preventing burnout. This involves setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and prioritizing activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Taking time for yourself allows you to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with your inner needs and desires. Self-care can take many forms, from indulging in a hobby to simply enjoying a quiet moment alone. Regularly dedicating time to yourself helps reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall well-being. 10. Visit a Mental Health Professional Sometimes, we need professional support for our mental health, and that’s okay! Knowing when it’s time to see a therapist shows strength and self-awareness. No matter where you are in your mental health journey, getting guidance from a therapist can be a helpful tool in living your best life. Our team of mental health professionals are ready to support you now, don’t be afraid to reach out and open up. When Should I Seek Professional Help for My Mental Health? It's important to know when it's time to reach out to a mental health professional. Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emotional distress that interfere with your daily life are clear indicators for seeking professional help. If your coping mechanisms and self-care activities fail to alleviate your mental health concerns, reaching out can offer valuable support and interventions. Nurturing Your Mental Well-being Through Action Investing time and effort in your mental health can make positive differences in your everyday life. By understanding the importance of mental health practices and incorporating proactive strategies, you lay the groundwork for feeling better and staying mentally strong over time. Whether through improved sleep hygiene, mindful practices, or seeking professional help when needed, these efforts can bring more joy, emotional stability, and peace into your life. Make these activities a regular part of your day with a focus on self-growth, and you'll be on your way to a healthier mind and a fuller life.

Finding Support for Perinatal Mental Health Struggles

Download our free wellness guide.

3 Adolescent Mental Health Red Flags Providers Should Watch for During Summer

Navigating Coming Out: Emotional Wellness Tips for Every Stage

10 Simple Actions to Improve Your Mental Health

Start your healing journey today