Your baby can hear and feel you. He loves the sound of your voice and the voices of your family. Singing to your unborn baby is actually the beginning of helping her to learn language. Talking and singing with your baby helps to create your special bond.

Expecting parents can:

• Talk and sing to your pregnant belly
• Feel your baby’s movements with your hands
• Read and use your prenatal appointments to learn more about your growing baby and your changing body

• Build a positive relationship with your unborn baby
• Cope with stress
• Solve problems
• Feel good about yourself
• Strengthen relationships with family and friends 

Ideas for taking care of your mental health:

• Every day, find time to breathe deeply, relax and calm your mind.
• Take care of your body if you can: eat healthy foods, be active every day, spend time in nature and get enough sleep.
• Connect with family, friends, co-workers and neighborhood resources.
• Develop a support network for you and your growing family.

If you are feeling stressed

• Take some time to notice your thoughts and how you are feeling.
• Pay attention to how your partner is feeling too.
• Reduce your stress by keeping things simple. Don’t be afraid to say “no” if you need to.
• Talk to family or friends about things that are bothering you. Ask for the help you need.
• Talk to your health care provider. 
• If it is a mental health crisis call Winnipeg Regional Health mobile crisis service at 204-940-1781

Hot parent tip: Taking care of mental health is important for all family members at all stages of life. When one family member feels stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or depressed, it affects the whole family.

Click here for more tips on mental health well-being.

Reference:

Winnipeg Regional Health Authority- Mental Health Promotion