Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders: Tips for Spouses and Partners

 

One parent’s perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) affects everyone in the family including the spouse or partner. It’s essential to practice good self-care to stay healthy and be available for your partner and children.

Tips for taking care of yourself … and each other!

  • Be kind to yourself by setting reasonable expectations.
  • Ask for help, information and support for yourself.
  • Understand that PMAD is a medical problem and is not anybody’s fault. Show compassion.
  • Develop a supportive circle for your family. Say yes when others offer to help.
  • Realize that helping your partner adjust to the new baby may increase the strength of your relationship.
  • Take time for yourselves. Continue to follow some of your own interests.
  • Be aware of your own needs for sleep, healthy eating, exercise, etc.
  • Keep the lines of communication open between each other.
  • Verbalize your feelings instead of distancing yourself from your partner.
  • Take a break if tempers are hot. Resume discussion later.
  • Find someone to talk to besides your partner.
  • Do not blame yourself.
  • Do not try to fix this alone.

You are not alone! Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders are the #1 complication of pregnancy. Pine Rest has innovative, proven programs to help you feel like yourself again.

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