By: Crystal Maxwell, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C
Perinatal mental health—the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals during pregnancy and the first year postpartum—is a critical yet often overlooked area of care. As a psychiatric clinic, we recognize that timely support during this vulnerable period can significantly impact both maternal and infant outcomes. Despite growing awareness, perinatal mental health disorders frequently go undiagnosed, leaving many patients to suffer in silence. Our goal is to ensure these conditions are recognized, validated, and effectively treated with evidence-based approaches.
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect more people than many realize. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and Postpartum Support International:
- 1 in 5 women experience postpartum depression or anxiety.
- 3% to 5% develop postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
- 10% of fathers may also experience depression during the perinatal period.
- An estimated 50% of PMADs go undetected and untreated.
These conditions affect individuals of all backgrounds—regardless of age, race, or socioeconomic status—and can begin during pregnancy (antenatal period) or manifest in the weeks or months following delivery.
There are many types of perinatal mental health disorders including postpartum depression, perinatal anxiety disorders, postpartum OCD and postpartum psychosis. Symptoms range from low mood, irritability, anxiety, excessive worry to distressing, intrusive thoughts, hallucinations, delusions and more. Routine mental health screening during pregnancy and postpartum is essential. Standardized tools can aid in early identification. Primary care providers, OB/GYNs, and pediatricians play a vital role in detecting symptoms and making timely referrals to mental health specialists. At our clinic, we offer personalized, compassionate care using a multidisciplinary model. Treatment plans are developed collaboratively with the patient and may include psychotherapy, medication management and online support groups.
Untreated perinatal mental health conditions can have long-term effects on maternal health, child development, and family well-being. Early intervention is associated with faster recovery, stronger parent-infant attachment, and reduced risk of chronic mental illness.
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