Strategies for Managing Suicidal Ideation During Pregnancy

Strategies for Managing Suicidal Ideation During Pregnancy

Rising Suicidal Ideation Among Pregnant Women: A Call for Awareness and Support

Suicidal ideation among pregnant women is a concerning issue that has been gaining attention in recent years. According to various studies, the prevalence of suicidal thoughts during pregnancy can range from 4.6% to as high as 23%, depending on various factors such as socioeconomic status, intimate partner violence, and HIV status [1][3][5].

A study focusing on low-income pregnant women found that approximately 4.6% reported suicidal thoughts, a figure that is almost double the rate in the general population. Women facing depression were found to be 13 times more likely to report suicidal ideation [1]. Another study revealed that in certain low-income, single, and IPV-experiencing groups, the prevalence of suicidal thoughts could reach as high as 23% [1].

Among pregnant women living with HIV, the prevalence of suicidal ideation was found to be about 20.5%, highlighting the elevated risk in this subgroup [3]. A systematic review reported that the overall prevalence of suicidal ideation during pregnancy ranges between 15-20%, with factors such as educational level, partner violence, and socioeconomic conditions influencing the rates [3].

In the United States, data indicates that suicidal ideation during pregnancy and postpartum is on the rise, with prevalence increasing from 0.1% in 2006 to 0.5% in 2017 among insured childbearing women [5].

Several factors have been identified as potential causes or risk factors for suicidal ideation during pregnancy. These include depression and antenatal depressive symptoms, childhood trauma and abuse history, intimate partner violence (IPV), socioeconomic disadvantage, HIV infection status, limited social support, and unintended pregnancy [1][2].

Given the significance of this issue, screening for suicidal ideation during pregnancy is crucial to identify women at risk and connect them to mental health resources. It's important to remember that suicidal ideation often signals underlying depression or trauma, even if not all women with suicidal thoughts meet the criteria for depression [1][3]. Early intervention can prevent escalation to suicidal behaviours and improve maternal and fetal outcomes.

Several safe psychotropic medications can be taken during pregnancy to manage mental health concerns. Creating and sticking to a self-care routine is also an effective way to manage stress during pregnancy. Effective ways to take care of yourself during pregnancy include mindfulness practices, gentle exercise, going for a walk, being in nature, engaging in activities you enjoy, getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and finding a support group.

If you're in immediate danger, call or text 988 for help. If you're having suicidal thoughts during pregnancy, prioritize safety first and contact a mental health crisis line, your OB-GYN, emergency services, or Postpartum Support International for help. Research shows that finding a support group can offer incredible benefits and healing during pregnancy.

Your OB-GYN is equipped to help with mental well-being during pregnancy, including screening for perinatal mental health concerns and offering referrals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are recognized and respected therapeutic techniques for perinatal mental health.

Black women, women with past trauma, those with anxiety or depression, and low-income women have a significantly higher risk factor for experiencing suicidal thoughts during pregnancy. Help is available through online therapy, support groups, and mental health crisis lines. It's crucial to remember that talking to someone you trust, such as a partner, friend, family member, or healthcare professional, can make a powerful difference in your mental well-being while pregnant.

Societal and internal pressures, such as the stigma associated with suicidal thoughts during pregnancy, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts when pregnant. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can also lead to mood swings, increased anxiety, symptoms of depression, emotional sensitivity, increased irritability, anger or frustration, difficulty concentrating, feeling easily tearful, fatigue, insomnia, changes in appetite, nausea, vomiting, headaches, breast tenderness, frequent urination, digestive changes such as constipation, gas, or heartburn.

Research shows that suicidal thoughts and thoughts of self-harm among pregnant women almost tripled between 2006 and 2017. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts during pregnancy, it's essential to seek help and prioritize safety. Help is available, and recovery is possible.

1. Online therapy can provide valuable support for pregnant women facing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.
2. A licensed therapist trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help expecting mothers manage their mental health and reduce the risk of suicidal thoughts.
3. Societal stigma and internal pressures, along with hormonal changes during pregnancy, can increase the risk of suicidal ideation and should be recognized and addressed to support mental health and well-being.
4. Women in high-risk categories, including black women, women with past trauma, those with anxiety or depression, and low-income women, may benefit from finding support groups or mental health resources.
5. Prioritizing self-care through mindfulness practices, exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep can help improve mental health during pregnancy and reduce the risk of suicidal thoughts.

Read also: