PARENTS' COACH NETWORK

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - PERINATAL MENTAL HEALTH

What is perinatal mental health?

Perinatal mental health refers to emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. It includes conditions such as anxiety, depression, panic disorder, and trauma related to pregnancy, childbirth, or becoming a parent.

Is it normal to feel anxious or depressed during pregnancy or after birth?

Yes. Many parents experience anxiety, low mood, or emotional overwhelm during pregnancy or after childbirth. Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, life transitions, and past experiences can all contribute. You are not weak, and you are not alone.

How do I know if I need professional support?

If your feelings are:

Persistent
Interfering with daily life
Affecting sleep, relationships, or bonding with your baby
Accompanied by fear, guilt, or intrusive thoughts

then professional support can be very helpful — even if you are still functioning “on the outside.”

What conditions do you support?

We provide psychotherapy and support for:

Perinatal anxiety and depression
Postpartum depression and “baby blues”
Fear of childbirth (tokophobia)
Birth trauma
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Infertility-related stress and grief
Difficulty bonding with your baby
Parenting stress and emotional adjustment

What type of therapy do you offer?

We primarily use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), along with trauma-informed and compassionate approaches. Therapy is tailored to your unique experiences, cultural background, and personal goals.

Do you offer services in languages other than English?

Yes. We offer psychotherapy in:

Cantonese
Arabic
Farsi

Do you work with refugees or newcomers to Canada?

Yes. We welcome referrals and partnerships with community agencies serving refugees and newcomers.
Clients covered under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) may be eligible for free services with a valid UCI number.

Is this service covered by insurance?

Psychotherapy may be covered by extended health benefits such as:

Manulife
Blue Cross
Other private insurance plans

Please check with your individual provider for coverage details.

I just found out I’m pregnant and feel anxious instead of happy — is something wrong with me?

No. Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, numb, or even fearful after finding out you’re pregnant is very common. Pregnancy can trigger uncertainty, past experiences, or worries about responsibility and change. These reactions do not mean you won’t be a good parent or that you don’t want your baby.

I can’t stop worrying about something going wrong with my pregnancy — is that normal?

Many pregnant individuals experience heightened worry about miscarriage, fetal health, or childbirth. While some worry is normal, constant anxiety or reassurance-seeking may be a sign that additional support could help you feel more grounded and at ease.

I’m pregnant but don’t feel connected to my baby yet — should I be concerned?

Bonding looks different for everyone. Some people feel connected immediately; others take time. Not feeling an instant connection during pregnancy does not predict how you will bond with your baby after birth. Therapy can help ease guilt or fear around this experience.

What if pregnancy is bringing up memories or past trauma?

Pregnancy and childbirth can surface past trauma, even if it feels unrelated. This is especially common for individuals with a history of medical trauma, loss, or difficult life experiences. Trauma-informed therapy can help you process these feelings safely.

I feel emotional, tearful, or overwhelmed after birth — is this normal?

Yes. The early postpartum period involves major hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and adjustment. Many people experience mood swings or tearfulness in the first two weeks. If these feelings persist or intensify, support can be very helpful.

How do I cope emotionally in the first few weeks after giving birth?

Gentle coping strategies include:

Lowering expectations of yourself
Prioritizing rest and nourishment
Accepting help from others
Talking openly about your feelings

Therapy can provide a safe space to process emotions and learn grounding techniques during this vulnerable time.

I feel anxious about my baby’s health or safety all the time — when is it too much?

Some vigilance is natural, but constant fear, racing thoughts, or inability to rest may signal postpartum anxiety. Support can help you regain a sense of calm and confidence in your caregiving.

Is it normal to feel disconnected, numb, or unlike myself after having a baby?

Yes. Some parents feel emotionally flat or disconnected in the postpartum period, especially if the birth was difficult or sleep is severely disrupted. This does not mean you don’t love your baby or that something is “wrong” with you.

When should I seek help instead of “waiting it out”?

Consider seeking support if:

Symptoms last longer than 2–3 weeks
Anxiety or sadness feels intense or constant
You’re feeling overwhelmed or isolated
You’re struggling to enjoy daily moments

You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from care.

What if I’m not sure whether therapy is right for me?

You’re welcome to reach out just to ask questions. Therapy can be short-term, supportive, and focused — not necessarily long or intensive. Sometimes, having a space to talk things through is the first step toward relief.