Mental Health
Even the healthiest pregnancy is a time of mixed emotions and great change. The never-ending nausea and vomiting of HG only heighten this experience. You may be stuck at home for an extended period, unable to partake in normal activities, or do things you normally enjoy and that make you feel like yourself. Add to this, the widespread ignorance of the condition and its impact and you may find yourself feeling isolated, misunderstood and lonely.
Hyperemesis Australia and the Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) surveyed 574 individuals with experience of Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) and/or Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy (NVP). The mental and physical toll of these conditions as well as the support they received from other settings was explored. The following are results obtained from this survey.
Things to remember:
Take it one day at a time: When your symptoms feel overwhelming, focus on getting through just one day - or even one hour - at a time. Remind yourself that you’re doing the best you can
Acknowledge and accept your feelings: Feeling anxious, depressed, frustrated, or isolated is super common with pregnancy sickness. Accept these feelings without judgment, and remember that it’s okay not to feel “okay” right now
Celebrate small victories: Managing pregnancy sickness can make even simple tasks feel impossible. Celebrate any progress, however small - whether it’s drinking a bit more water, eating something, or just resting well
Stay connected: Isolation can worsen anxiety and depression. Try to stay connected with loved ones through calls, messages, or even social media. Sharing how you’re feeling with someone who cares can help lighten the emotional load
Rest as much as possible: Physical exhaustion can add to emotional strain, so listen to your body and rest whenever you can. Don’t feel guilty for prioritising rest over anything else
Remind yourself it’s temporary: HG feels endless, but it will pass. Try to remember that this isn’t forever, even when it feels like it, and focus on making it through in the short term
Seek out supportive communities: Look for online groups or forums for people experiencing pregnancy sickness. Sometimes, connecting with others who understand exactly what you’re going through can be a huge relief. Hyperemesis Australia operates an online support group for sufferers and survivors, we’d love for you to join us
Be kind to yourself: You’re dealing with an incredibly tough condition, so avoid self-criticism. Instead, give yourself the same compassion you’d offer a friend in your position
Reach out for mental health support: Talking with a therapist, especially one who understands pregnancy-related issues, can provide tools to cope with anxiety and depression. Many therapists offer online sessions, which can make accessing help easier when you’re too sick to leave the house
Remember, you’re not alone: pregnancy sickness can feel isolating, but you’re part of a community that understands. Whether it’s friends, family, healthcare providers, or organisations, like Hyperemesis Australia, dedicated to pregnancy sickness, know there are people rooting for you and here to help
Where to seek support
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COPE
The Centre of Perinatal Excellence has a number of online resources for all stages of family planning plus the eCope directory will help you find an accredited mental healthcare provider in your area
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PANDA
Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) has online resources for expecting parents and healthcare providers, a helpline to call for immediate support, and an education hub with downloadable resources
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GIDGET
The Gidget Foundation offers a free video counselling service for new and expecting mums who are struggling with their mental health and are unable to have a face-to-face consultation. Referrals are required
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BEYONDBLUE
With lots of options for virtual points of contact - including online forums and real life stories - BeyondBlue are a great source of support when you’re struggling and can’t leave the house
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PREGNANCY, BIRTH & BABY
The Pregnancy, Birth and Baby maternal child health nurses are available seven days a week over the phone or via video call between the hours of 7am and midnight (AET)
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LIFELINE
Lifeline offer 24/7 crisis support via their online chat service, text or phone call
Handling advice
Dealing with well-intentioned but ill-informed or unhelpful advice NVP or HG can be challenging, but it's important to prioritise your own well-being and trust your instincts. While friends and family may offer advice out of concern, it's crucial to recognise that not all advice is suitable for your unique situation. Instead of feeling pressured to follow every suggestion, consider politely acknowledging the advice while asserting your own needs and boundaries. Surround yourself with understanding and supportive individuals who respect your decisions and offer genuine empathy. Additionally, finding online communities or support groups of fellow HG survivors can provide a safe space to share experiences, exchange advice, and seek validation. Trust in your ability to advocate for yourself and prioritise self-care throughout your journey with HG.
Support in your pocket
Hyperemesis Australia partnered with the Centre for Perinatal Excellence to produce a special HG Edition of the Ready to Cope app. This free app ensures that you have access to quality information throughout your pregnancy and first year of parenthood - and the HG Edition is like having a dedicated HG cheerleader in your pocket.