Preventative Support Strategies
Many risk factors are difficult or even impossible to address when identified during pregnancy (e.g., family history of mental health difficulties or age cannot be changed), whilst others can be easily modified (e.g., unhelpful beliefs about motherhood or low parenting confidence)1. Several examples of support strategies to mitigate compound risk are outlined below.
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Repetitive Negative Thinking (RNT)
Repetitive Negative Thinking (RNT), including rumination and future worry, predicts PNA3 . Psychoeducation and peer support are proposed to reduce RNT, particularly when negative thoughts stem from discrepancies between idealised parental expectations and reality.
Low parental self-efficacy
Low parental self-efficacy is also a strong predictor of PNA1. Universally accessible parenting psychoeducation should challenge dysfunctional beliefs about motherhood and strengthen self-appraisals (e.g., parenting self-confidence) to reduce the risk of PNA.
Physical health
Addressing specific health factors, such as insomnia late in pregnancy, is critical, as sleep difficulties are associated with increased risk of anxiety following childbirth4, 5. Psychological interventions or psychoeducation focused on sleep may reduce this risk.
Public health strategies to reduce smoking during pregnancy should also be maintained, as smoking is associated with PNA1.
You’ll find a selection of self-help tools on this website that can be used to make the best of mental health and reduce the risk of experiencing distressing anxiety symptoms.
We have also begun compiling a list of signposting resources for regions where we are collaborating with NHS and third-sector services. If you would like to suggest other services to add to this list, please get in touch!
Self-help and signposting information can be reached quickly via the links below.
References
1 Jones et al., 2025
2 Harrison et al., 2020
3 Moulds et al., 2022
4 Osnes et al., 2019
5 Osnes et al., 2020
Social Support
Low social support is a key risk factor for PNA, whilst high levels of social support have been demonstrated to reduce compound risk1 .
Offering peer support initiatives that provide both emotional and informational assistance may be a cost-effective preventive measure.
Support from friends, rather than family or a significant other, has been demonstrated to moderate the relationship between cognitive risks, such as repetitive negative thinking, and PNA symptoms2 . Targeted support should aim to foster strong social networks for vulnerable individuals.