Memorial Counseling Associates | (217) 788-4065
Providing assessment and therapy services in Central Illinois - Springfield, Lincoln and Jacksonville
Pregnancy & Childbirth
Are you pregnant? Feeling stressed? Overwhelmed?
Pregnancy is such a time of joy, right? Then why do I feel so worried and guilty? Isn't motherhood supposed to be wonderful?
Although pregnancy is portrayed as a time of great joy, that is not the reality for many women. At least one in 20 women suffers from depression during pregnancy. But depression and anxiety often go undiagnosed as women dismiss their symptoms as a normal part of the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy. Worse yet, feelings of shame and isolation can compound the symptoms of depression during pregnancy.
Your emotional health during pregnancy is every bit as important as your physical health. Depression and anxiety can make it harder for you to have a healthy pregnancy and can increase your risk for preterm labor. Untreated depression during pregnancy increases your risk for postpartum depression.
We can help
At Memorial Counseling Associates, we specialize in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders related to pregnancy and childbirth. We provide diagnostic assessments, psychotherapy and referrals for medication, if needed. We also provide information and support to expectant fathers.
Symptoms of Depression During Pregnancy
In the past two weeks have you struggled with:
- Restlessness, anger or increase irritability
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Feelings of sadness, depression or frequently tearful
- Being overly worried about the baby or not concerned about the baby at all
- Little or no energy
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Eating too little or too much
- Focusing, remembering or making decisions
- Feelings that it would be okay if you did not wake up the next day
Discuss your answers to these questions with your nurse or doctor. They can help you get the treatment you need to feel better.
Call Memorial Counseling Associates in Springfield at (217) 788-4065 to schedule an appointment with a licensed therapist experienced in helping women take the best care of themselves and their babies during pregnancy.