Pregnancy and parenthood are often constructed as times of joy and fulfilment. However, becoming a parent (for the first or numerous time/s) can be a difficult adjustment that is often fraught with change and loss. The following video highlights the importance of parents allowing themselves ways to acknowledge and process such difficulties. Change and loss that has not been dealt with may heighten the risks for perinatal depression and anxiety (including both antenatal and postnatal elements). As many as 1 in 5 mother and 1 in 10 fathers may experience postnatal depression. This may be particularly difficult for parents with the societal expectation of "parental bliss" and hence may leave parents feeling shamed and wanting to hide what they are going through. Perinatal depression and anxiety can be pervasive both for individuals and families and it extremely important for parents not to hide difficult feelings and symptoms they may be experiencing as this may delay getting help and prolong their difficulties. Perinatal depression and anxiety are not uncommon and can be effectively treated through a combination of approaches, such as medication, support groups, education and psychotherapy (parent-infant psychotherapy, individual and family interventions).
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