How To Cope With Stress, Anxiety, And Depression During Pregnancy

Pregnancy for some is the happiest time of their lives. The exciting news of a new family addition, the teeny tiny clothing, and decorating the new nursery are all apart of the fun and excitement, but for others, this time is not quite as exciting. It could be a terrifying and stressful experience, leaving you full of anxiety. To help cope with your pregnancy, it's important to talk with someone about your feelings and to know that you aren't alone. Make an appointment with a pregnancy counseling center for help. See below for some other things you can do to help cope during your pregnancy.

Do What You Love

Get out and do what you love doing. If you love exercise or being outside, get outside, and get back to working out. Ask your obstetrician before beginning any type of exercise regimen and ask what you can actually do throughout your pregnancy, but most low impact exercise is usually OK, such as walking. 

Get A Massage, Pedicure Or Manicure

Take a spa day for yourself and get a massage, or have your nails done. Be sure the masseuse knows that you are pregnant before getting your massage, as they most likely have a special type of massage for pregnant women. A spa day may help you relax and ease stress and anxiety.

Start Saying "No"

Your pregnancy is not the time to do everything for everyone. If you are already overwhelmed, it's perfectly OK to begin telling people "no" and don't feel bad about it. Take more time for yourself, because before long it won't just be you any longer. You can't do it all, so stop trying.

Cut Back

Again, you can't do everything, especially with a huge baby belly, so start cutting back on your chores around your house. Now is the time to ask your partner for help with these, or as a friend or family member for help if need be. Things such as mowing the lawn and cleaning the bathtub may begin to get difficult, and it's perfectly fine to ask for help, especially in that third trimester.

Be Open

Open up to your partner about the feelings you are having about your pregnancy. Your partner may be able to help ease some of your fears and anxieties. Talk to a close friend or family member if you can about these feelings as well. It may be helpful to open up about these feelings. If opening up to anyone close to you is difficult, talk to a counselor instead. Talking about your feelings will help. Ignoring them and letting them fester may result in postpartum depression or other types of anxiety after the baby is born.

Take time for yourself during your pregnancy to help ease stress, anxiety and depression. Make an appointment to talk to a counselor about your pregnancy if these feelings worsen to prevent unnecessary risks to you and your baby. Places like All Women's Clinic can help you.

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