Achieng is excited. This is her first child. She has waited and prayed, and now she can finally feel the kicks. Her first ultrasound was magic; seeing those tiny limbs kicking around made her eyes teary.
But Achieng also battles endless questions every time she places her head on the pillow: Will I be a good mother? What if something goes wrong? Why am I feeling anxious when I should be happy?
You might be Achieng.
Pregnancy is beautiful, yes, but it is also overwhelming. Between the changing body, the flood of hormones, and the never-ending advice from family and friends, it is easy to feel mentally drained. And while people often ask how you’re feeling physically, whether you’ve eaten, if you’re sleeping well, or if the baby is kicking, few stop to ask how you’re doing emotionally.
Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical health. Anxiety, stress, and even depression are common during pregnancy, but they are rarely spoken about openly. Protecting your mental health doesn’t just benefit you; it also helps your baby grow in a calm and healthy environment.
Many women imagine pregnancy as a season filled only with joy, glowing skin, and anticipation. While those moments do exist, the reality is more layered. The body undergoes drastic hormonal changes that can affect mood. Add to that the societal pressures, expectations to be strong, grateful, and endlessly patient, and you have a recipe for hidden emotional struggles.
According to global studies, up to one in five expectant mothers experiences significant anxiety or depression during pregnancy. Unfortunately, mental health is still stigmatized, and these struggles often go unnoticed or unspoken. Yet, untreated stress and anxiety can affect sleep, appetite, and even contribute to complications during delivery. A healthy mind creates a healthier environment for your child.
Here are top 5 ways to protect your mind during pregnancy;
Speak Up About Your Feelings
Don’t bottle up your fears. Talking is therapy in itself. Share your worries with your partner, a trusted friend, or even your Malaica doctor. Sometimes simply saying out loud, “I am scared” or “I feel lonely” can lift an invisible weight off your chest.
Consider writing down your feelings and then discussing them with someone you trust. You may discover that many of your fears are common among other mothers, which can be reassuring.
Filter the Advice
Pregnancy often turns into a public project. Everyone from your mother to the neighbour at the kiosk will have something to say about what you should or shouldn’t do. Some advice is helpful, but much of it can be confusing or anxiety-inducing.
Take what’s useful, but remember: the final word belongs to you and your doctor. You don’t need to justify your choices to everyone. Politely nod, smile, and move on. Protecting your peace sometimes means setting boundaries.
Create Small Rituals of Self-Care
Pregnancy is not just about preparing for the baby; it’s also about caring for yourself. Simple acts like journaling your thoughts, saying a short prayer in the morning, or taking an evening walk can bring calm into your day.
Self-care doesn’t need to be grand or expensive. A warm cup of tea, a quiet moment with a book, or listening to calming music can become daily rituals that ground you. These little acts are not selfish; they are necessary for your well-being.
Stay Grounded in Facts, Not Fear
The internet can be both a friend and an enemy. Late-night Google searches about every ache and twinge can quickly spiral into fear. While it’s good to be informed, avoid drowning in misinformation.
Trust your medical team to guide you on what’s normal and what’s not. Ask questions during your checkups instead of relying on online forums. A fact-based approach helps keep unnecessary fears at bay.
Ask for Help When You Need It
If sadness or anxiety feels too heavy to carry, seek professional support. Seeing a counsellor or joining a support group can make the journey lighter. Remember, needing help does not mean you are failing; it means you are brave enough to acknowledge your limits.
It’s okay to be both excited and scared. It’s okay to laugh during the day and cry at night. It’s okay to not have all the answers. Pregnancy is not a straight road; it is full of turns, bumps, and surprises.
Protecting your mental health during pregnancy is not a weakness; it is a strength. When you prioritise your well-being, you also nurture a healthier space for your baby to grow. A calm, emotionally balanced mother is better equipped to handle the challenges of childbirth and motherhood.
So, when the world around you gets noisy with unsolicited opinions and overwhelming expectations, remember this: you are doing your best, and your best is enough.
Achieng’s scenario may feel familiar because, in many ways, it mirrors the silent struggles of countless mothers. The excitement of carrying life often sits alongside the fear of the unknown. Both can co-exist. The key is not to ignore your emotions but to acknowledge them, give them space, and seek support when needed. As you navigate your pregnancy, protect your mental health as fiercely as you protect your physical health.