Perinatal Mental Health Myths That Hold Parents Back from Getting Help
Why Myths About Perinatal Mental Health Persist
Becoming a parent is one of life’s most profound changes—but for many, it comes with silent struggles. Perinatal mental health challenges, like postpartum depression and anxiety, are incredibly common, yet stigma and misinformation still prevent parents from reaching out for help.
At Core Psychology in Calgary, we hear it all the time: “I thought I just needed to tough it out” or “I didn’t think what I was going through was serious enough.” These beliefs aren’t the truth—they’re myths. And they often leave parents suffering alone when support is available.
Myth #1: “It’s just the baby blues—everyone feels this way.”
While mood swings and tears in the first days after birth are common, the “baby blues” typically resolve within about two weeks. If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm continue beyond that—or feel too heavy to manage—it may be something more. Postpartum depression or anxiety is not just part of the normal adjustment. It deserves care and attention.
Myth #2: “If I admit I’m struggling, it means I’m a bad parent.”
Nothing could be further from the truth. Reaching out for perinatal counselling shows strength, not weakness. Parenthood is demanding, and your ability to recognize your own limits is a sign of love and responsibility. The best way to care for your baby is to also care for yourself.
Myth #3: “Counselling won’t help with something that’s just hormones.”
Yes, hormones play a role in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders—but they aren’t the whole story. Stress, sleep deprivation, relationship changes, and identity shifts all contribute. Counselling provides tools and strategies that address the bigger picture, supporting both your mental health and your day-to-day functioning.
Myth #4: “Things will get better on their own if I just wait it out.”
For some, symptoms do ease over time. But for many parents, waiting only prolongs the pain and increases feelings of isolation. Early support through perinatal counselling in Calgary can make a significant difference—helping you feel more connected, capable, and supported sooner.
Myth #5: “Counselling is only for severe cases.”
You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling. Whether you’re feeling a little more anxious than usual, struggling with sleep and overwhelm, or noticing strain in your relationship, therapy offers a safe space to process your experience and find relief.
Breaking the Silence: Support is Here
The truth is, perinatal mental health struggles are common—and treatable. Counselling helps you move beyond survival mode into a place where you feel more grounded, present, and able to enjoy this stage of life.
If you’re in Calgary and wondering whether perinatal counselling could help you, know this: you don’t need to wait until things feel unbearable. Support is here, and it can make all the difference.
At Core Psychology, we provide perinatal support in Calgary that meets you where you are—with warmth, expertise, and care.
Ready to move past the myths? Learn more about our perinatal counselling services in Calgary and take your first step toward feeling better today.
Ready to take the first step?
Booking your first appointment is simple. Reach out today.
📞 Call: 403.488.8912
📧 Email: admin@corepsychology.com
📍 Visit Us in Marda Loop, Calgary
