These resources are designed to support expecting and new parents manage mental health challenges effectively.
Books
- Coping with Depression During Pregnancy and Following the Birth - Michelle Haring et al. (2011). A free CBT-based self-help guide for managing depression during pregnancy or postpartum. Includes coping skills, healthcare communication tips, and resources for family and friends. Available for free online.
- Coping with Anxiety During Pregnancy and Following the Birth - Michelle Haring et al. (2013). A free CBT-based workbook offering insights into anxiety types, coping strategies, and communication tips for pregnant or postpartum women. Available for free online under "Additional Resources - Self-Care Guides.
- The Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook - Kevin Gyoerkoe & Pamela Wiegartz (2009). Practical skills for overcoming anxiety, worry, and panic during pregnancy and postpartum.
- Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts: A Healing Guide to the Secret Fears of New Mothers - Karen Kleiman (2019).
- This Isn't What I Expected: Overcoming Postpartum Depression, Second Edition - Karen R. Kleiman & Valerie Davis Raskin (2025).
- Dropping the Baby and Other Scary Thoughts: Breaking the Cycle of Unwanted Thoughts in Motherhood - Karen Kleiman & Amy Wenzel (2010).
Websites
- BC Reproductive Mental Health Program - Offers mental health services from pre-conception planning through postpartum, including both counselling and medication options. Requires physician referral for services.
- Postpartum Support International - Offers information on depression, anxiety, and postpartum support. Includes helpful resources for families.
- Pacific Postpartum Support Society - Provides phone coaching, support groups, and community talks for new mothers. Includes partner education sessions and a variety of written resources.
- Canadian Psychological Association Fact Sheet on Perinatal Anxiety - An informative fact sheet about anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum.
- Center for Perinatal Excellence (COPE) - Australian-based resources on emotional wellness during pregnancy and postpartum. Topics include body image, sleep, baby bonding, and managing advice from others.
- The Period of Purple Crying - Information on the normal developmental phase of “purple crying” in babies aged 2 weeks to 3-4 months.
Parenting Resources
- Healthy Families BC - New Parents Section - Covers parenting basics with videos and written content.
- Baby’s Best Chance: Parents’ Handbook of Pregnancy and Baby Care - A comprehensive guide to baby care, breastfeeding, safety, and development.
- Canadian Mental Health Association Enjoy Your Baby Course - A free 5 session course based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy that helps new parents care for their well-being and both with their baby during the first year of their child's life.
