Perinatal Mental Health: You're Not Alone and You're Not Failing

Motherhood is often described as a beautiful, life-changing experience. And while that can be true, it’s not the whole story. The truth is, the transition into parenthood is complex—it’s joyful and exhausting, heart-expanding and overwhelming, deeply fulfilling and incredibly lonely, sometimes all at once.

If you’ve found yourself struggling during pregnancy or postpartum, you’re not alone. Perinatal mental health—our emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and the postpartum period—is one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of maternal health. And yet, so many parents suffer in silence, believing they should be “stronger” or that something is wrong with them for not feeling how they expected to feel.

Here’s the thing: struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human.

Understanding Perinatal Mental health

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect up to 1 in 5 new parents—yet many go undiagnosed because of stigma, fear, or the unrealistic pressure to "have it all together." These can include:

  • Postpartum Depression (PPD): Persistent sadness, guilt, or a sense of disconnection from your baby.

  • Postpartum Anxiety (PPA): Racing thoughts, excessive worry, or feeling on edge.

  • Postpartum OCD: Unwanted, distressing thoughts and compulsions.

  • Postpartum PTSD: Often linked to a traumatic birth experience.

  • Postpartum Rage: Unexplained, intense anger that feels out of character.

The good news? You don’t have to navigate this alone.

why Perinatal Mental health matters

Untreated perinatal mental health struggles don’t just affect parents—they impact entire families. When we prioritize the well-being of parents, we’re also supporting the emotional and developmental health of children. Seeking help isn’t just an act of self-care; it’s an act of love—for yourself, your baby, and your family.

Without support, PMADs can lead to:

  • Increased stress and emotional exhaustion

  • Feelings of isolation or guilt

  • Difficulty bonding with your baby

  • Struggles with daily functioning or relationships

On the other hand, with the right support, healing is absolutely possible.

Simple ways to care for yourself during pregnancy & Postpartum

While professional support is key, small, intentional actions can make a big difference in your daily well-being. Here are a few ways to care for your perinatal mental health:

1. Prioritize Rest (Even in Small Doses)

Sleep deprivation is real, and while it may not always be possible to get a full eight hours, rest is still essential. Take shifts with a partner, accept help, and remind yourself that your rest matters too.

2. Speak Up & Ask for Support

Vulnerability is courageous. Whether it’s a friend, partner, therapist, or support group, sharing what you’re going through can ease the weight of isolation.

3. Set Boundaries & Protect Your Energy

Not every visitor, piece of advice, or expectation deserves space in your life right now. It’s okay to say no. Protecting your peace is an act of self-compassion.

4. Move Your Body (Without Pressure)

Gentle movement—like stretching, walking, or deep breathing—can help reduce stress and reconnect you to your body. Do what feels good, not what you “should” do.

5. Challenge Unrealistic Expectations

You don’t have to “bounce back.” You don’t have to love every moment. You are already enough.

6. Seek Professional Support

If you're feeling overwhelmed, persistently anxious, or disconnected, therapy can help. You deserve care just as much as your baby does.

Finding help in Denver & Richmond

If you’re struggling with perinatal mental health, you are not alone, and you don’t have to figure this out by yourself. In Denver and Richmond, there are resources, therapists, and support systems ready to help you navigate this season with compassion and care.

At Radiance Counseling, we specialize in perinatal mental health, providing a safe space for new parents to process their emotions, manage anxiety, and find balance. We see you. We hear you. We’re here for you.

You Deserve Support

Struggling doesn’t make you a bad parent—it makes you a parent who is being honest about their experience. Healing starts when we allow ourselves to be seen and supported.

If this resonates with you, reach out. Let’s work together to make sure you feel as cared for as the baby you’re caring for.

schedule a free consultation today

Radiance Counseling is here to support you in Denver and Richmond. Reach out today—we’d love to walk this journey with you.

Jessica Smith