How to Deal with Anxiety While Pregnant

While I can never truly comprehend what it's like to endure pregnancy paranoia, I have had the privilege of...

Anxiety
March 21, 2025

While I can never truly comprehend what it's like to endure pregnancy paranoia, I have had the privilege of working with professionals who specialize in mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders and severe anxiety disorder.

As a father, I've only witnessed the challenges that come with pregnancy anxiety through my wife's experiences.

My aim is to share insights and tips from these experts to help soothe the anxiety that many expectant mothers face, addressing issues such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, and the physical symptoms of anxiety.

If one works to manage and learn about the risk factors and impacts of post traumatic stress disorder during pregnancy, then we hope to provide some comfort and support during this critical time.

Tip 1 - Talk to Your Doctor

One of the best things you can do is to talk to your doctor.

They can help to put your mind at ease and answer any questions you may have.

If your anxiety is severe, they may also recommend therapy or medication.

However, there are also some things you can do on your own to manage your anxiety.

Exercise, relaxation techniques, and talking to friends and family can all be helpful.

Remember that you are not alone in this.

Many women feel anxious during pregnancy, but with proper care and support, you will be just fine.

pregnant person holding belly

Tip 2 - Identify Your Triggers

One of the most common triggers of anxiety during pregnancy is worries about the health and wellbeing of the baby.

This can be exacerbated by stories you hear from friends or family members about their own pregnancies, or even from watching television shows or movies that portray pregnancy as a dangerous time.

It's important to remember that every pregnancy is different and that the vast majority of babies are born healthy and happy.

If you're feeling anxious, try to talk to your partner or a trusted friend or family member about your concerns. Sometimes simply sharing your fears can help to reduce their power.

Another common trigger for anxiety during pregnancy is financial stress.

The costs of medical care, childcare, and other necessities can be daunting, especially if you're already struggling to make ends meet.

If money is a source of stress for you, there are several resources available to help you during pregnancy.

Many hospitals offer free or low-cost programs for pregnant women, and there are also a number of government assistance programs available.

Talking to a financial advisor or another trusted individual can also help you to create a budget and plan for your future expenses.

Finally, many women experience anxiety during pregnancy due to fear of the unknown. The changes that occur in your body during pregnancy can be scary, and it's normal to feel intimidated by the prospect of labor and childbirth.

Again, talking to your doctor or a trusted friend or family member can help to ease these fears.

Reading books or articles about pregnancy and childbirth can also be helpful. It can be reassuring to know what to expect and to have a plan in place. These are all good things to keep in mind when learning how to deal with anxiety while pregnant.

Tip 3 - Practice Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques can be extremely helpful in reducing stress and promoting calm. Here are three reasons why.

  • They can be done anywhere. You don't need any special equipment or gadgets to practice relaxation techniques. That means you can do them anytime, anywhere – whether you're at home, at work, or even in the middle of a store.
  • They don't take up much time. Relaxation techniques can be done in just a few minutes. That makes them perfect for busy moms-to-be who may not have a lot of time to spare.
  • They have lasting effects. Once you learn how to relax, it becomes easier to do so again in the future. That means you can turn to relaxation techniques whenever you start to feel anxious or stressed – not just during pregnancy but also in your everyday life.

So if you're looking for ways to deal with anxiety during pregnancy, give relaxation techniques a try.

There are many different techniques to choose from, so you're sure to find one that suits you.

Some popular options include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization.

You can also try listening to relaxing music or nature sounds or writing in a journal. This is a good step when learning how to deal with anxiety while pregnant.

Meditation is also a great option for pregnant women who are struggling with anxiety.

There are many different types of meditation, so you can experiment until you find one that works for you.

Mindfulness meditation is a good option for beginners, and there are also specific programs designed specifically for pregnant women.

If you're not sure where to start, there are numerous books, websites, and apps that can help you learn more about meditation and how to do it.

mobile toy for over a crib

Tip 4 - Get Support from Others

If you're struggling with anxiety during pregnancy, it can be helpful to seek out support from others.

There are many different ways to do this. You can join a support group for pregnant women or new moms, talk to a counselor or therapist, or even just confide in a trusted friend or family member.

Sometimes simply knowing that you're not alone can be a huge relief.

There are also many online resources available if you're looking for support from others.

There are forums, chat rooms, and social media groups where you can connect with other women who are going through the same thing.

This can be a great way to get information and support, especially if you're not able to meet up with other women in person. Talking to others is a good step to consider when learning how to deal with anxiety while pregnant.

Tip 5 - Take a Break

When you're feeling anxious, it can be helpful to take a break from whatever is causing your stress.

If work is stressing you out, try taking a personal day or two.

If you're having trouble dealing with the changes in your body, take a break from looking at yourself in the mirror.

And if you're feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of parenthood, take a break from reading parenting books or articles.

Instead, focus on doing things that make you happy and help you relax.

This could include spending time outdoors, reading for fun, listening to music, or taking a yoga class.

Do whatever you need to do to take care of yourself healthily and ease your anxiety.

Overcomers Counseling Colorado Springs Offices

5585 Erindale Dr Suite 204, Colorado Springs, CO 80918

(719) 345-2424

4440 Barnes Rd Suite 100, Colorado Springs, CO 80917

(719) 602-1342

825 E Citadel Dr Suite 250, Colorado Springs, CO 80909

(719) 452-437

42860 S Circle Dr Suite G45, Colorado Springs, CO 80906

(719) 481-3518

5245 Centennial Blvd Suite 205, Colorado Springs, CO 80919

(719) 203-7021

‍Overcomers Counseling is here to help you navigate emotional or behavioral challenges you may be facing. Give us a call and we will connect you with therapists in Colorado who specialize in managing anxiety. You might be you dealing with anxiety symptoms, panic disorder, or stressful life events, and our professionals can provide the support you need. Pregnancy complications, obsessive compulsive disorder, and a family history can all contribute to developing anxiety, including perinatal and antenatal anxiety. Our experts understand the mental health conditions associated with pregnancy, such as rapid heartbeat and the stress of giving birth, and will work with you to calm anxiety. Research suggests that addressing these issues early can lead to better outcomes.

Disclaimer

The information presented here in this article should be used for informational purposes only. Please do not use this content as a substitute for advice from a licensed medical professional.

Conclusion

Anxiety during pregnancy is a common but manageable condition.

There are many different things you can do to ease your anxiety and feel better.

Remember to take things one step at a time, and don't hesitate to seek out support from others if you need it.

With a little time and effort, you can get your anxiety under control and enjoy your pregnancy.

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Anxiety

What can I do to reduce my anxiety?

To reduce your anxiety, you can practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and mindfulness practices. Additionally, regular exercise has been found to be beneficial in managing stress and improving mental health.

Why is it important to address anxiety?

Addressing anxiety is crucial because it can significantly impact your quality of life and overall well-being. Left untreated, anxiety can lead to more severe mental health issues, relationship problems, and difficulty functioning in daily life.

What other activities are beneficial for reducing anxiety symptoms?

Other activities which have been found helpful in reducing both immediate feelings of anxiousness and long-term anxieties associated with chronic disorders include yoga, journaling, nature walks, art therapy, volunteering, and other low-stress activities. Additionally, developing a healthy lifestyle incorporating adequate sleep, physical activity, and nutritious meals can help reduce overall stress levels.

Are there specific therapy services for anxiety and depression covered by Medicaid?

Yes, Medicaid provides insurance coverage for therapy services specifically designed to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Access to licensed therapists who specialize in these areas is available within the Medicaid network.

Will medication help with my anxiety?

Medication is often prescribed for anxiety due to the fact that it works quickly to ease symptoms of distress or panic attacks in some cases. However, this should always be discussed with your doctor so they can provide guidance on what's right for you and the type of medication best suited for your needs.

What can happen if I don't seek help for my anxiety?

Ignoring anxiety can exacerbate symptoms and make it more challenging to manage over time. This can result in a negative impact on your personal, professional, and social life, leading to feelings of isolation and even depression.