According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately seven percent of women experience prenatal depression, also known as perinatal depression or maternal depression. As a disclaimer, I want to emphasize that I am not a medical professional, and this blog is solely for informational purposes. It’s important to note that while seven percent may seem relatively low, the actual prevalence of prenatal depression can vary significantly depending on whether healthcare providers actively screen for it. A 2020 PubMed study found that the screening prevalence for prenatal depression ranged widely across clinics, from as low as 34.7% to as high as 100% of pregnant patients.

There is widespread consensus among various healthcare organizations that pregnant women should undergo screening for depression using a standardized questionnaire. This questionnaire typically covers basic inquiries regarding feelings of hopelessness, worry, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm. However, as highlighted by the aforementioned study, prenatal depression screening isn’t consistently implemented across all healthcare settings. I strongly believe that not only should this screening be conducted universally, but also that necessary interventions should be promptly initiated for expectant mothers who screen positive for depression.

Personally, when I underwent the depression screening at 16 weeks pregnant, my score indicated a significant level of depression. This outcome didn’t come as a surprise to me, given my long-standing history with depression and the challenges I faced during the initial months of pregnancy. When my midwife discussed my score and potential interventions, I wasn’t taken aback. However, I’d like to refrain from delving into the specifics of these interventions, such as counseling or medication, as I understand that these decisions are deeply personal. Instead, I encourage individuals to conduct their own research and engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers regarding their choices.

#JoyTasks

One aspect of my journey that I feel comfortable sharing is my decision to implement what I call #JoyTasks. I devised this concept out of the necessity to find purpose and joy in my daily life, especially since I wasn’t working during this period. #JoyTasks encompass simple activities—ranging from small to significant—that bring happiness and fulfillment to one’s day. These tasks can involve venturing outside or staying indoors, spending money or not. I committed myself to a 30-day challenge of #JoyTasks.

Here are some examples of #JoyTasks that I’m partaking in. I hope you find some that you might try and come up with some yourself

• Go to a park with your book and read for 30 minutes to an hour. This is ideal on a warm, sunny day to benefit from that Vitamin D!
• Go to your favorite bakery and get your favorite treat.
• Prep for dinner (I like doing this in the morning) with loud dance music.
• Go on a walk and chat with a friend/friends.
• Plan a sleepover with a friend. Yes, I know I’m in my 20s. It’s fun, trust me.
• Go to a movie. I’ve recently rediscovered going to the movie theater, and I think it’s so fun now!
• Take an everything shower. Okay, I know this one can feel like a chore, but I promise once you get in and get going, you will feel so much more joyful!

Here’s a photo from one of my #JoyTasks at Discovery Park in Seattle. Tell me what you end up doing!