Family Health

Pregnancy and childbirth bring big hormone changes. These changes can affect your mood, energy, and thoughts. It is normal to feel happy one moment and overwhelmed the next. About 1 in 5 people feel depression or anxiety during this time. You are not alone.

Small steps can help you feel better. Try getting sunlight each day-even a short walk outside. Gentle movement, like stretching or walking, can help. You can also try slow breathing (see page 5), writing down your thoughts, or imagining a calm place.

Your OB doctor recommends checking your mental health during pregnancy and after your baby's birth. Make sure you go to all your prenatal and postpartum visits. This helps your doctor check your mental health and follow up if you need support. These services are covered by Medi-Cal.

If you feel sad or anxious, talk to your doctor. Help is available.

Categories: Maternal mental health