4 Myths About Pregnancy & Postpartum Mental Health That Need to Go
Pregnancy and postpartum are often painted as magical, glowing seasons of life—and yes, they can be filled with joy and excitement. But they can also be messy, exhausting, and overwhelming. The truth is, for many people, these stages bring a mix of emotions… and sometimes, real mental health struggles.
Unfortunately, there’s still a cloud of myths surrounding pregnancy and postpartum mental health that can make it harder to get the right support. Let’s clear the air.
Myth #1: Pregnancy and postpartum mental health issues are rare
This one couldn’t be further from the truth. Perinatal mental health challenges (meaning during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum) are actually very common. Research shows that up to 1 in 5 women experience significant mental health difficulties during this time.
If you’ve been feeling anxious, down, irritable, or unlike yourself, you’re not broken—you’re human. And you’re far from alone. The help you need is out there, and it works.
Myth #2: Struggling means you’re weak or a “bad mom”
This myth is harmful—and it needs to go. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders have nothing to do with your strength, character, or how much you love your baby. They’re influenced by a mix of biological, psychological, and environmental factors—think hormonal shifts, life stress, sleep deprivation, and past experiences.
Struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human in a very intense chapter of life, and reaching out for support is a sign of courage, not weakness.
Myth #3: Antidepressants aren’t safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
The reality is more nuanced. While some medications aren’t recommended, many have been studied extensively and found to be safe for use during pregnancy and postpartum. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits and potential risks so you can make the choice that’s best for you and your baby.
Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all—sometimes it includes therapy, support groups, lifestyle changes, and yes, medication when needed.
Myth #4: You should be able to handle it all on your own
The “supermom” narrative is exhausting—and unrealistic. Pregnancy and postpartum are physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding. Expecting yourself to carry the load without help isn’t noble; it’s unsustainable.
Whether it’s leaning on a partner, family, friends, therapy, or a local support group, you deserve a village. Asking for help is a step toward healing—not a sign you can’t cope.
The bottom line
Pregnancy and postpartum mental health struggles are more common than most people realize, and they have nothing to do with how capable or loving you are as a parent. If you’re finding this chapter harder than you expected, please know you’re not alone—and it’s not your fault.
With the right support, things can and do get better. You deserve to feel like yourself again, and there’s no shame in taking that first step toward help. Connect today
