Risk and protective factors
No one knows for sure what causes perinatal anxiety, but there are some factors that appear to make people more vulnerable. There is good news – there are also protective factors that may help avoid or lessen symptoms of anxiety.
Click the tabs below to find out more about risk and protective factors.
Protective Factors
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Good support networks with family and/or friends
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Talking about your feelings to someone you trust
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Looking after your physical health, e.g., getting enough sleep, exercise, eating well, etc
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Looking after your mental health, e.g., relaxation techniques like breathing exercises and mindfulness, etc
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Resilience
Risk Factors
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Being in an abusive relationship
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Having pregnancy and/or birth complications
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Having a perfectionist temperament
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Previous or current mental illness
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Family history of mental illness
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Having high expectations of parenthood
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Experience high levels of self-criticism
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Having more than one baby
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Living with extended family members
