Pregnancy and postpartum are times of heightened vulnerability to the onset or recurrence of bipolar disorder. Learn why early recognition, screening, and open dialogue matter for better perinatal mental health care.

If you're struggling with perinatal depression or anxiety (PNDA), or any other perinatal mental illness, chances are you've asked yourself a question that feels both urgent and impossible: "Why is this happening to me?" Wanting to understand why you feel this way is completely natural. But when you’re in the middle of a mental health crisis, that search for a reason can actually make things harder. Here’s why it might be time to stop fixating on the cause of your PNDA - and how letting go of that pressure could actually be the first step towards real, compassionate support.

Have you ever been told to “be kinder to yourself” and not known where to start? You’re not alone. For many mothers, self-compassion sounds so simple but feels incredibly hard to practice. In fact, it can feel selfish, indulgent, or even wrong. But these beliefs are myths and they keep us stuck in cycles of guilt and self-criticism. The truth is, learning how to be gentle with ourselves can transform not only how we mother, but how we care for our own mental and emotional wellbeing - which is why challenging these myths is important.

Many people assume perinatal mental health concerns only happen postpartum. This article highlights the often-overlooked struggles during pregnancy and the importance of early recognition.

Mother-centric care involves care from health and support providers who value the health, decisions, and needs of the mother.

Contrary to what some might have us believe, mother-centric does NOT mean we don’t value what’s best for our child/children.

To me, it simply means we aren’t putting the mother last.

Postpartum planning involves making intentional decisions before birth to protect your wellbeing and support your family after baby arrives. From practical help to emotional care, thinking ahead can make the early weeks feel more manageable.