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4. Pull together as a couple. Two key factors that contribute to depression following birth also affect pregnancy. Marital discord and unwanted pregnancy both contribute to stress in pregnant women. If couples do not pull together, there can be a postpartum crisis, with depression worsening. Ask yourself these questions: Do you feel supported by your husband? What kind of parent do you think your partner will be?
5. Do not be shy about getting professional help. Do not count on pregnancy hormones to take away depression that has been longstanding in your life. Becoming a mother is a much underestimated life change. Emotional support through this period of change for women is more often than not a deficit in their prenatal care. Counseling can be very important in helping you work through your depression.
6. Do not delay! Explore your inner landscape and talk with your partner about the changes a baby will bring to your lives. Be aware that this may require some soul-searching and discovery of your own childhood ghosts. Create the family that you want to have together.
