Feeling Alone During Pregnancy? Understanding the Link to Depression

Pregnancy involves 40 weeks of constant—and sometimes unexpected—bodily transformation, mood swings, and anticipation. The idealized view of pregnancy on social media can make the actual experience feel isolating. If you're feeling alone during pregnancy, you're not alone.

Every trimester brings changes. Even when everything is going smoothly, it can feel destabilizing when basic things like sleep become challenging. If you're a first-time parent, major life changes are coming. It's normal to feel alone during this time.

However, if this feeling persists or comes with other symptoms, it may be a sign of perinatal depression—depression that occurs during pregnancy.

What is Perinatal Depression?

Depression during and after pregnancy is called perinatal depression. While postpartum depression (after birth) is more commonly discussed, depression during pregnancy is also possible and affects up to 20% of pregnant women.

You may also hear terms like:

• Antenatal/prenatal depression: Depression before birth
• Postpartum depression: Depression after birth
• Post-weaning depression: Depression after stopping breastfeeding

Symptoms of Depression During Pregnancy

• Sadness, anxiety, or an "empty" feeling lasting two weeks or longer
• Hopelessness or pessimism
• Irritability or moodiness
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Fatigue beyond normal pregnancy tiredness
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating

Can You Take Antidepressants During Pregnancy?

Yes, antidepressants can be taken during pregnancy—up to 8% of pregnant people do so. Many people understandably worry about effects on the fetus, especially given long lists of medications to avoid during pregnancy.

However, it's important to weigh medication risks against risks of untreated depression:

• Untreated depression during pregnancy has been linked to premature birth, low birth weight, and postpartum depression
• Your health directly impacts pregnancy outcomes and your child's development
• Recent robust research shows minimal risk of harm to the fetus from antidepressants—no increased incidence of autism, ADHD, or learning problems

Any medication has potential risks and side effects. If you're pregnant and wondering about antidepressants—or currently taking them and newly pregnant—contact your OB-GYN or a psychiatrist experienced with perinatal mental health.

Tips to Manage Pregnancy Loneliness

1. Reach out to a loved one: Even though others can't experience what you're experiencing, you can still lean on family and your partner. Social support during pregnancy is emotionally and physically beneficial.
2. Find community: Spending time with other pregnant people who relate to your experience can help. Support groups exist in many cities and online.
3. Know your feelings are normal: The changes you're going through are huge. Mood swings are expected—these feelings aren't your fault.
4. Practice self-care: Take time to relax and attend to your wellbeing—being active, taking a warm bath, or getting a prenatal massage.
5. Talk to your doctor: Many OBs routinely screen for depression and anxiety during pregnancy. Even if you don't think you have depression, discuss how you're feeling.

When to Seek Treatment

If you think your loneliness might actually be prenatal depression—if you have many symptoms listed above, or feelings aren't going away—consider reaching out to a mental health professional.

A psychiatrist can help determine what you're experiencing and work with you to find the best treatment approach, whether medication or other interventions.

Perinatal Mental Health Care at Next Step Psychiatry

At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, GA, we understand the unique mental health challenges of pregnancy. Our psychiatrists provide compassionate care and can help you navigate treatment options during this important time.