Pregnancy and the first year after birth—known as the perinatal period—can trigger a range of mental health concerns. These often include antenatal (prenatal) and postpartum depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and more rarely postpartum psychosis. Pregnant and new parents may experience significant distress such as persistent sadness, irritability, excessive worry, or intrusive thoughts . Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, shifts in identity, and relationship stress can all contribute. It’s important to recognize that experiencing a mix of overwhelm and joy is normal—but when mental health symptoms persist, escalate, or interfere with daily life or bonding, that’s a sign it’s time to seek professional mental health support.

If you’re experiencing persistent sadness, overwhelming anxiety, irritability, frequent crying, sleep or appetite changes, or difficulty bonding with your baby—and these last beyond two weeks—it’s important to seek therapy promptly. Early mental health support during pregnancy (antenatal therapy) can also significantly reduce postpartum distress, according to USPSTF guidelines recommending CBT/IPT for at-risk parents . Therapy provides a safe space to process fears, learn coping skills, and build healthy support networks before symptoms escalate, making perinatal challenges more manageable.

Evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are first-line treatments for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders . These typically involve 12–16 sessions focusing on identifying unhelpful thoughts, improving relationships, managing stress, and problem-solving daily life adjustments. For severe cases like postpartum psychosis or treatment-resistant depression, a combination of medication, therapy, support groups, and possible hospitalization may be required. Furthermore, therapies can be adapted to address perinatal-specific issues such as fear of childbirth or traumatic birth experiences.

Yes. While much attention is on mothers, fathers and non-gestational partners can also develop perinatal mood disorders. Partners may experience stress, anxiety, sadness, sleep issues, or lack of confidence in parenting. Therapy for couples improves communication, strengthens relationships, and helps both parents adjust emotionally. Family involvement enhances support for the birthing person and addresses the shared pressures of early parenthood.

At Uprise Psychology, our therapists are trained in perinatal mental health, offering specialized understanding of pregnancy loss, birth trauma, PPD, and perinatal anxiety. We provide flexible options, including in-person sessions in Ottawa and secure virtual therapy across Ontario. Our approach is evidence-based, using CBT, IPT, mindfulness, and psychoeducation, plus collaboration with OB-GYNs, lactation consultants, and pediatric teams as needed. We also support group sessions and peer networks to normalize and reduce isolation. You’ll receive compassionate, personalized care that prioritizes safety, bonding, and well-being for both you and your family. You can learn more about our team of mental health professionals here.