Article is written by Dr Jasmine Yeo
Mental health during pregnancy and the early years of a child’s life shapes not only the emotional well-being of mothers but also the developmental journey of their infants. While pregnancy and parenthood are often celebrated as joyful milestones, they can also bring about emotional challenges that deserve attention. In this article, we explore why maternal and infant mental health matters, the signs to look out for, and how early support can make a lasting impact.
Why Your Mental Health Matters: Building a Strong Foundation for Mothers and Babies
The transition into parenthood is a period of profound change. Hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and the pressures of caregiving can create stress for new mothers. For babies, their earliest experiences depend entirely on the caregiving environment. Secure attachment—built through warm, responsive interactions — lays the groundwork for emotional resilience, social skills, and mental health later in life.
But what happens when stress, anxiety, or depression interferes with this bond? Studies show that untreated maternal mental health conditions can affect infant development, making it all the more important to recognise and address mental health challenges early.
Recognising the Red Flags: Maternal Mental Health Challenges
Postnatal Depression (PND): Beyond the Baby Blues
Postnatal depression affects about 10-15% of mothers. Unlike the temporary “baby blues” experienced in the first few days after childbirth, PND is more persistent and can significantly affect a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby.
Common signs include:
- Persistent sadness or feelings of hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby
Who’s at risk? Women with a history of depression, hormonal fluctuations, complications during childbirth, or limited social support may be more vulnerable. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment—whether through counselling, therapy, or medication—can improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
Postpartum Anxiety: When Worry Takes Over
While anxiety is a natural part of parenthood, postpartum anxiety affects about 10% of new mothers and goes beyond normal concerns. It often presents as excessive worry that disrupts daily life.
Symptoms include:
- Constant fear about the baby’s health or safety
- Panic attacks or physical symptoms, such as dizziness or breathlessness
- Restlessness and an inability to relax
Identifying whether this anxiety is temporary or persistent is key to determining if intervention is needed.
The Ripple Effect: How Maternal Mental Health Influences Babies
Babies are deeply attuned to their caregivers’ emotions and behaviours. Consistent, loving care helps build trust and emotional security, but untreated maternal mental health conditions may disrupt this process.
Potential signs of distress in infants include:
- Limited eye contact or engagement
- Excessive crying or clinginess beyond the first few months
- Reduced interest in exploring their surroundings
Recognising these signs early allows caregivers to seek support and break the cycle of intergenerational mental health challenges.
Nurturing Healthy Minds: Practical Tips for Mothers and Babies
- Encourage Open Conversations – Creating safe spaces to talk about mental health reduces stigma and encourages help-seeking behaviour.
- Prioritise Rest and Self-Care – Fatigue can intensify feelings of anxiety or depression. Caregivers can step in to help mothers take breaks and catch up on sleep.
- Build a Strong Support Network – Whether through family, friends, or support groups, having emotional and practical support can ease stress.
- Engage in Bonding Activities – Simple activities like skin-to-skin contact, singing, or reading can strengthen emotional connections with babies.
- Explore Parenting Programs – Evidence-based programs such as the Circle of Security Parenting (COS-P) provide practical tools to support secure attachments.
Parenting with Confidence: Spotlight on the Circle of Security Program
The Circle of Security Parenting program is an evidence-based approach designed to help parents better understand and respond to their child’s emotional needs. Conducted over eight weeks, it focuses on building secure attachments, which form the foundation for healthy development.
Key takeaways from COS-P include:
- Recognising emotional cues in children and responding with sensitivity
- Focusing on emotional connection rather than behaviour correction
- Repairing relationship ruptures to strengthen trust and resilience
Such programs can provide structure and support for parents navigating the ups and downs of early parenthood.
Prioritising Mental Health for Families
Maternal and infant mental health is a shared responsibility that starts with awareness and early action. Recognising the signs of stress, depression, or anxiety and seeking professional help can set the foundation for lifelong well-being.
For convenient access to mental health support, Doctor Anywhere offers teleconsultations with licensed psychologists and counsellors through its app ($119.90 for 45-min consultation). Early intervention can make all the difference — because a healthy start begins with a healthy mind.
