The Impact of Pregnancy Complications on Perinatal Mental Health

Thrive • May 17, 2022

By Thrive Wellness Reno’s Director of Perinatal Psychiatry, Andrea Thompson, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC

While the majority of pregnancies are without complications, pregnancy abnormalities do occur and may be mental or physical in nature. Common complications can include hypertension, preeclampsia, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) . Even if a pregnancy complication isn’t a mental health condition, it can still have spiraling effects on mental well-being both during pregnancy and postpartum. The potential harm associated with pregnancy compilations can make an emotionally turbulent time even more challenging for parents to navigate. Just as prenatal care can help reduce some of the risks of developing pregnancy complications, seeking mental health support can help guide expecting parents in processing their pregnancy experience and any challenges they face along the way.

DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY

Under the umbrella of PMADs , depression and anxiety are among the most common mental health complications of pregnancy. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) , up to 13% of women in the U.S. experience symptoms of depression after childbirth. Additionally, up to 43% of moms who struggle with depression during their pregnancy or postpartum periods also experience co-occurring anxiety.

Risk factors for experiencing depression or anxiety during pregnancy may include:

A personal or family history of depression or anxiety
Being a young parent
Being a single parent
Lack of social or financial support
Pregnancy complications
Relationship struggles with significant other

Symptoms of depression during pregnancy may include:

Difficulty concentrating
Feeling sad, hopeless, worthless, apathetic
Inability to find enjoyment in activities one previously enjoyed
Thoughts of suicide

Symptoms of anxiety during pregnancy may include:

Irritability
Muscle tension
Restlessness
Uncontrollable worry

Depression and anxiety are some of the most treatable pregnancy complications. Through therapeutic support, such as that offered by perinatal mental health specialists , expecting and postpartum parents can discover the root causes of their depression and anxiety while learning healthy, effective coping strategies for their mental health symptoms.

HYPERTENSION

High blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension, can cause increased pressure in the arteries. In a pregnant person, elevated blood pressure can restrict blood flow to the fetus, which can increase the risk of preterm labor and preeclampsia. According to the CDC , among women aged 20 to 44, high blood pressure happens in one in every 12 to 17 pregnancies.

Circumstances that may play a role in whether or not a person will develop elevated blood pressure include:

First pregnancy
Lifestyle, including the way one nourishes their body and their level of physical activity
Older than age 35
Pregnant with multiples
Substance use, including smoking and drinking alcohol
Use of fertility treatments

Symptoms of hypertension include:

Cold, clammy skin
Faintness
Headache
Nausea

By working closely with one’s healthcare provider, high blood pressure can be managed throughout a person’s pregnancy and the baby can be born healthy. Elevated blood pressure is also associated with stress, so mindfulness strategies , such as breathing practices, meditation, and yoga can help promote healthy blood pressure.

GESTATIONAL DIABETES

Gestational diabetes occurs when diabetes that had not previously been a factor develops during pregnancy. Up to 10% of pregnancies are affected by gestational diabetes.

Risk factors for gestational diabetes include:

Family history or cultural prevalence of diabetes
Pregnant with multiples
Older than 25

Potential medical risks of gestational diabetes include:

Preeclampsia
Hypertension
Cesarean delivery
Preterm birth

Often, gestational diabetes doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms, so healthcare providers must test for the condition. With the oversight of a physician or midwife, and often with the help of nutritionists, gestational diabetes can be effectively managed through medication as well as guidance on movement and nourishment.

PREECLAMPSIA

Closely associated with hypertension, preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that can disrupt the functioning of all the body’s organs including the kidneys, liver, lungs, and brain. Those with preeclampsia face an increased risk of giving birth early and losing their pregnancies. According to the CDC , preeclampsia occurs in 1 in 25 pregnancies in the U.S.

While the direct cause of preeclampsia is unknown, there are several risk factors including:

Elevated blood pressure
First pregnancy
History of preeclampsia
Pregnant with multiples

Preeclampsia most commonly happens during first pregnancies, but a person who developed preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy is seven times more likely to experience the condition in subsequent pregnancies, according to the NIH .

Symptoms of preeclampsia include:

Changes in vision, such as blurry or spotted vision
Constant headache
Difficulty breathing
Nausea or vomiting in later trimesters
Pain in the upper abdominal region
Sudden weight gain
Swelling of the face or hands

When preeclampsia affects brain function by causing seizures or coma, the condition is known as eclampsia. Preeclampsia can also occur after giving birth, usually between 48 hours and 6 weeks following delivery.

According to the NIH , every year, preeclampsia and eclampsia cause 50,000 to 75,000 maternal deaths worldwide. While preeclampsia can be life-threatening for the parent and baby, those diagnosed with preeclampsia can fully recover and have healthy babies with treatment and close monitoring from their healthcare providers.

PRETERM LABOR

Preterm labor occurs when labor begins before 37 weeks gestation. According to the CDC , in 2020, one out of every 10 infants were born prematurely. In the final months and weeks of pregnancy, babies are still reaching important milestones. Their brains, lungs, and livers are still developing in the womb. Babies born early face an increased risk for birth defects , including problems breathing, feeding, seeing, and hearing. Additionally, preterm labor can also cause infant death , with 17% of infant deaths associated with preterm birth, according to the CDC . As with preeclampsia, the causes of preterm labor are largely unknown, but there are certain risk factors.

Risk factors of preterm birth include:

Family or personal history of preterm labor
Hypertension
Infections, including urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted infections
Large uterus
Preeclampsia
Pregnant with multiples
Previous history of preterm births
Substance use, including smoking and drinking alcohol
Use of fertility treatments
Younger than 20 and older than 35

Because preterm labor isn’t well understood, it’s difficult to fully mitigate one’s risk of giving birth prematurely. However, seeking early prenatal care that continues throughout pregnancy can help monitor and address any factors that may lead to preterm birth.

PREGNANCY LOSS

Pregnancy losses that occur before 20 weeks are usually referred to as miscarriages, while those that occur after 20 weeks are called stillbirths. For women with confirmed pregnancies, research shows that the miscarriage rate is between 10 and 20%. In the U.S., 1 in 100 pregnancies ends in stillbirth, according to the CDC .

No matter when a pregnancy loss takes place, it can be a tragic, distressing, and mournful loss for parents. A study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry found that 15 percent of the women participants who experienced miscarriages also struggled with depression and anxiety in the years that followed. Another study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that infants born after a stillbirth exhibited disorganized attachment behavior . In other words, as parents come to terms with their perinatal loss, they may struggle to bond with their other children.

PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS AND PERINATAL MENTAL HEALTH

As parents prepare their lives for a new baby, they may experience shifts in their mental health. Whether physical or mental in nature, pregnancy complications can inject even more distress into their perinatal experience as parents navigate medical appointments, endure additional testing, and encounter unknowns. Many parents facing pregnancy concerns keep their struggles private and continue to attend to their professional, family, and social obligations — a pattern of behavior that can promote feelings of isolation.

Pregnancy challenges can and often do impact parents’ postpartum experience as well. Experiencing depression and anxiety during pregnancy puts parents at a greater risk for developing PMADs after giving birth.

THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT FOR THOSE FACING PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS

For those facing pregnancy complications, therapy can provide compassionate support, validation of experiences, and a safe environment to express and process fluctuating emotions. Medication can also help treat mental health struggles associated with pregnancy concerns for some individuals. Further, open communication channels between a person’s OBGYN or midwife and their mental health treatment team can ensure targeted, well-rounded care.

NURTURING CARE FOR EXPECTING PARENTS

When seeking professional mental health support related to pregnancy complications, parents may consider speaking with a perinatal mental health therapist who can offer a specialized perspective that’s intimately aware of many of the concerns faced by parents who are pregnant or have new children. At Thrive Wellness, our perinatal health experts specialize in perinatal mental, physical, and behavioral health care. Together, they collaborate on your care so that you feel supported through any pregnancy challenges. Reach out to learn more about our perinatal health services as they vary by location.

About the Author

Thrive Reno’s Director of Perinatal PsychiatryAndrea Thompson, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC

Andrea Thompson, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a Nurse Practitioner whose background has stemmed in primary care, primarily working with under-served and under-insured populations. After several years in family practice, she completed a Post Master’s certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. In early 2019, she started a program the first of its kind in Northern Nevada to integrate mental health services into a women’s health/OBGYN practice where she had a focus on perinatal mood and anxiety disorder diagnosis and treatment which solidified her passion for Perinatal/Reproductive Psychiatry. She has also completed certificate training with Postpartum Support International. As a postpartum depression survivor herself, she has a passion for helping other women throughout their journey to mental wellness. She and her husband moved to the Reno area several years ago from Seattle, WA to settle into a place to raise their family; they have three young boys. Aside from spending time with her family outdoors, Andrea is also active in the efforts to improve the sexual health education offered to the youth in our community as well as advocating at the state level to support Nurse Practitioner autonomy and Maternal Mental Health.

The post The Impact of Pregnancy Complications on Perinatal Mental Health first appeared on Thrive Wellness.

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Breaking Down Barriers: Debunking the Most Common Eating Disorder Myths

By Sage Tippie • February 14, 2025

This Eating Disorders Awareness Month, we’re focusing on fighting the misinformation and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders that so often create barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Myths about eating disorders can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and keep people from receiving effective and timely treatment when they need it. It’s no secret that the field of eating disorders is riddled with misinformation, leading to confusion, stigma, and shame for those struggling. In this blog post, we'll explore the common myths about eating disorders and fight them with concrete facts in the hopes of building a more informed and educated community when it comes to these serious mental health conditions. Eating Disorder Myths Versus Facts Myth: Only those who are medically underweight have an eating disorder. Fact: Someone can have an eating disorder at any weight. In fact, less than 6% of those diagnosed with an eating disorder are medically underweight. There is even a specific diagnosis for those who are not underweight showing the symptoms of anorexia called atypical anorexia. People of all sizes are at risk for serious complications from an eating disorder, not just those that are underweight. Myth: Only women have eating disorders Fact: Although often associated with teen girls, eating disorders can affect those of any gender and age. While stereotypes and stigma surrounding eating disorders may tell us that men are not commonly affected by them, research has found that nearly 25% of those who present for eating disorder treatment are male. Keeping an open mind around who can be affected by eating disorders allows for more accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. Myth: Eating disorders are just about food. Facts: While eating disorders always involve an unhealthy relationship with food or body image, they also are rooted in biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects. Eating disorders cannot be treated just by changing eating behaviors, but by addressing the mental aspect of the illness as well. This is why integrated treatment involving a team of social workers, primary care specialists, therapists, and in some cases occupational therapists or psychiatrists is so crucial: a holistic approach is needed to treat all aspects of an eating disorder. Myth: Eating disorders aren’t that serious. Fact: Eating disorders are extremely serious and life-threatening mental disorders that require dedicated treatment. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. By taking eating disorders and their diagnosis and treatment seriously, we can save lives. Myth: Eating disorders are a choice. Fact: Just like any other illness, eating disorders are not a choice or a phase, nor is recovery from an eating disorder just a simple decision to start eating more or less. Recovery is not dependent on willpower, but on ongoing professional treatment and long-term support. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, requiring patience and a supportive environment and team on your side. It is a gradual, step-by-step journey, rather than an instantaneous decision made on one person’s part. Myth: Eating disorders always involve negative body image. Fact: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) does not have to do with body image. Those with ARFID may avoid many foods because of texture, taste, color, or smell, or feared outcomes of eating like choking or vomiting. Like any other eating disorder, ARFID is serious and requires specialized treatment like exposure-response prevention therapy. Myth: Eating disorders only affect White people. Fact: Although Black, Latina/o/x/e, Indigenous/Native, and Asian people are historically underrepresented in studies of eating disorders, large-scale studies have found that rates of eating disorders are the same or higher in all racial and ethnic groups as compared to white individuals (NEDA). Removing racial stereotypes around eating disorders can help to remove barriers that BIPOC individuals commonly face when seeking treatment. Dispelling the Myths: A Path Towards Understanding By addressing and dispelling these myths, we can create a safe space that promotes understanding and empathy. Eating disorders are not choices or phases, but debilitating mental health issues that can affect anyone. Recognizing the seriousness of these disorders is so important in reducing stigma and ensuring that those who are struggling receive the care and support they require. This month and every month, we encourage you to fight misinformation and stick up for those experiencing eating disorders, because knowledge and education can be one of the greatest assets to recovery for those who need it. If you or someone you know is in need of eating disorder support, don’t be afraid to reach out , our team of healthcare professionals are here for you. To learn more about eating disorders and the journey to recovery, download our free eating disorders guide .

Why Eating Disorder Awareness Matters

By Sage Tippie • February 6, 2025

Did you know that February is Eating Disorder Awareness month? Here at Thrive, we're passionate about educating our community and providing tools for eating disorder recognition while offering the specialized support and treatment that those with eating disorders deserve. Join us this month in the conversation around eating disorders and putting an end to harmful stereotypes and misinformation. Let's cover six reasons why building awareness around eating disorders is so crucial. 6 reasons why eating disorder awareness is important 1. Eating disorders are serious. Despite often being termed as a "choice" or a "phase," eating disorders are an incredibly serious psychological condition that require specialized treatment and support. Anorexia Nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric diagnosis in the United States, and every 52 minutes, 1 person dies as a direct consequence of an eating disorder (NEDA) . By spreading awareness and providing early intervention in eating disorder treatment, we can not only change lives, but save them. 2. Eating disorders are more common than you think. 9% of the US population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives and 22% of children and adolescents worldwide show symptoms of disordered eating (NEDA). Since eating disorders can be challenging to detect, many go undiagnosed. Raising awareness for eating disorders and educating our community partners about their symptoms can allow us to catch eating disorders as early as possible and bring these statistics down. 3. Fight harmful eating disorder stereotypes. A common stereotype in association with eating disorders is that of the "thin, white, affluent female," however, anyone is at risk of an eating disorder despite their appearance or background. Stereotypes associated with eating disorders around weight, gender, age and race can create serious barriers to seeking care and major disparities in treatment. People experiencing an eating disorder can face challenges in seeking and receiving treatment or may feel unworthy of recovery when they don’t fit a stereotype, preventing them from gaining needed support and treatment. Promoting diversity and representation through awareness and education can help to break down the harmful stereotypes that have historically surrounded eating disorders. 4. Eating disorder recovery is not a one person job. Family and loved ones’ involvement in eating disorder treatment is crucial for recovery. Family-based therapy (FBT) has proven to be effective in 50% of patients being treated for anorexia nervosa, and is effective in the treatment of other eating disorders as well. A strong support system and steadfast relationships through the struggles associated with eating disorders can lead to more effective and long-lasting recovery. With more awareness and education, people will be better equipped to provide assistance to their loved ones in recovery. 5. You’re not alone. Eating disorders can be an isolating and painful disorder, making those experiencing it feel like they’re the only ones, or that no one understands what they’re going through. Building an informed community through awareness and education can be the first step towards diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. 6. Recovery is Real. Those with eating disorders are capable of long-term recovery through appropriate treatment. Research has found that the earlier intervention takes place in the treatment of eating disorders, the better the odds of long-term recovery are. Awareness and education around eating disorders helps the people that need support find it sooner, resulting in a repaired relationship with food and the body and a fuller life. How can I get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts? To get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts, start by educating yourself about the complexities and different types of eating disorders. By gaining a deeper understanding, you can become a more effective advocate. You can also consider participating in local or national events such as walks, trainings, or online webinars that aim to raise awareness, provide support to those affected, and offer education around eating disorders and their diagnosis. Another simple step for building awareness can be using your social media platform to share factual information, personal stories, or relevant resources that can help demystify eating disorders and reduce stigma. Additionally, supporting legislative efforts that promote mental health education and funding for eating disorder research can help in creating systemic change. By taking these steps, you can contribute to this important movement and work alongside us to foster acceptance, encourage early intervention, and ultimately save lives. Eating Disorder Treatment and Support Thrive offers a free eating disorder guide with more information about eating disorder symptoms and recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with eating or body image, don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for support. At Thrive Wellness, we offer a number of treatment options for all ages and genders, including a partial hospitalization program, an intensive outpatient program, outpatient therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition services, and more. Don’t wait to get started on treatment, contact us for a free eating disorder assessment today.

Alcohol and Mental Health: How Alcohol Effects Anxiety and Depression

By Thrive • January 24, 2025

You’ve probably heard of “Dry January” or are even participating yourself. More and more people seem to be experimenting with or embracing sobriety from alcohol, but what benefits are there from abstaining? In this article, we’ll explore alcohol’s effects on mental health, the symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and the benefits of cutting back on drinking. Alcohol's Effects on Mental Health Commonly consumed as a way to relax after a long day or to lighten up in social interactions, alcohol is a widely used and culturally accepted drug despite warnings of its dangers by health experts . When a person regularly drinks, it can result in a slew of complications for their physical and mental health. Although often consumed in an attempt to escape stress, sadness, or other unpleasant emotions, alcohol itself is a depressant that can contribute to negative feelings and exacerbate existing mental health conditions, especially with prolonged use. Alcohol influences thoughts, mood, and behaviors by impacting the central nervous system in a way that slows the communication between the brain and the body. Without the ability to process information effectively, the brain isn't able to regulate emotions and consider consequences effectively which may promote unhealthy behaviors, including drinking to excess. Ways that alcohol can affect cognitive functioning include: Lowering inhibitions Contributing to poor judgment Causing confusion Causing lapses in memory Disrupting sleep Contributing to shifts in mood Alcohol and Mental Disorders According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 37% of people with alcohol use disorders also have at least one serious mental illness. Furthermore, alcohol abuse commonly occurs alongside depression and anxiety . Research has shown that those with major depressive disorder and those with generalized anxiety disorder were more likely to report life‐time moderate to severe alcohol use disorder than those without these conditions. Frequently, individuals struggling with depression or anxiety self-medicate by drinking alcohol. Although alcohol may provide temporary relief, it expends the chemicals in the brain which help ward off anxiety and depression. When the initial effects of the drug fade, individuals are typically left feeling more depressed or anxious than they did before they began drinking. Related: Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Substance Abuse Disorders Alcohol Use and Depression The slowed functioning of the brain caused by alcohol can allow individuals to numb to their suffering. As such, those experiencing depression may be inclined to drink to avoid the sadness, pain, and hopelessness associated with depression. This maladaptive coping behavior is so prevalent that research shows a clear relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and major depression. Using alcohol while depressed can be extremely dangerous. Not only can alcohol negatively interact with antidepressants, but it can also place individuals experiencing depression at an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior . If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors , you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Alcohol Use and Anxiety According to a study on anxiety and AUD , a person with an anxiety disorder is two to three times more likely to develop an alcohol abuse disorder. When individuals with anxiety drink alcohol, they may feel an initial alleviation of their symptoms as well as a sense of euphoria. However, the symptoms of hangovers and alcohol withdrawal following heavy drinking can heighten feelings of anxiousness and interfere with ones daily obligations, contributing to even more agitation. This feeling of dread and anxiety associated with a hangover is commonly referred to as " hangxiety ," but for those with existing anxiety conditions, this side effect of drinking can feel unbearable. Individuals with anxiety may be driven to drink more to tamper their stress and re-establish the sense of euphoria, resulting in a dangerous cycle of alcohol abuse. Unhealthy Drinking Behaviors and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Most who regularly drink alcohol don't have AUD, which develops when addiction is present. However, alcohol-related side-effects on mental health are still common, and they may still benefit from mental health support . Signs of unhealthy alcohol use include: Feeling a need to consume alcohol to make it through the day Feeling unable to stop consuming alcohol Progressively feeling a need to increase consumption of alcohol Drinking to prevent or alleviate symptoms of hangover or withdrawal Feeling ashamed of ones alcohol consumption Having loved ones express concern over drinking habits AUD is a condition that is often driven by genetics, abuse, trauma, or unhealthy family dynamics. Healing from AUD is possible and it can be treated with the help of mental health professionals and a dedicated treatment plan. Signs of AUD include: Alcohol use that interferes with the ability to carry out daily activities Drinking despite the behaviors adverse effects on their life Often drinking more or for a longer period of time than intended Persistent desire and unsuccessful attempts to curb alcohol use Revolving their schedule around drinking Experiencing strong cravings for alcohol Continuing to drink despite experiencing recurring illness or social issues as a result of alcohol use Giving up activities one used to enjoy in favor of drinking Using alcohol during situations where its physically hazardous to be impaired Continuing to use alcohol despite knowing that it exacerbates a known existing health condition Developing a tolerance for alcohol, or needing more alcohol to feel the same effects Experiencing alcohol withdrawal or drinking more to avoid withdrawal What are the Mental Health Benefits of Going Sober or Drinking Less Alcohol? Reducing or eliminating your alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of mental health benefits, improving your overall quality of life. When going sober or cutting back on your alcohol consumption, some of the benefits you can look forward to are: Improved mood stability, including reduced feelings of depression and anxiety Improved sleep quality Enhanced cognitive function Increased energy levels Improved concentration and productivity Increased self-esteem More authentic social interactions Improved relationships Limiting your alcohol consumption has the capability to change your life for the better, as it can help you establish a healthier mental environment, build better connections, and improve your physical health. Support for Alcohol Abuse and its Mental Health Impacts As humans, it can be uncomfortable for us to process difficult experiences and feel intense emotions. Therapy can help heal the source of your struggles driving alcohol abuse, while also guiding you in implementing healthy strategies for processing painful emotions. Through professional mental health support, you can be empowered to embrace life without having to rely on alcohol. Thrive offers outpatient therapy for substance abuse struggles in addition to other mental and behavioral health conditions. Reach out to learn more. Additional Resources SAMHSAs National Helpline : A free, confidential, and 24/7 service for individuals and families facing mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders, reachable by calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or texting 435748 (HELP4U). National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholisms (NIAAA) Treatment for Alcohol Problems : A guide for individuals and their loved ones who are looking for options to address struggles with alcohol use.