This book is a hands-on guide for facilitating treatment of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Readers will learn about why anxiety and related difficulties can increase during pregnancy and the postpartum period, the critical roles that thoughts and behaviors play in maintaining symptoms, and how to apply practical cognitive and behavioral strategies to reduce distress and increase coping skills. Chapters are integrated with the latest research, and clinicians and individuals alike are presented with customizable cognitive behavioral therapy-based handouts, exercises, and worksheets proven to meet the unique needs of the perinatal population.

Part I: Anxiety and Depression During Pregnancy and Beyond: Understanding Symptoms and the CBT Approach 1. Understanding Anxiety During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: A Vulnerable Time 2. Depression During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: A Common Co-Occurrence With Anxiety 3. A Cognitive Behavioral Approach for Reducing Symptoms Part II: CBT for Anxiety and Depression: A Step-By-Step Approach to Treatment 4. Increasing Your Awareness and Understanding Your Triggers 5. Tackling Thinking Errors: Three Cognitive Strategies 6. Problem Solving with Productive Worry 7. Addressing Problematic Behaviors Using Therapeutic Exposure 8. Behavioral Activation: Improving Mood by Changing Behavior 9. Assertive Communication: Developing Skills to Attain Your Needs 10. Moving Forward: Maintaining Gains and Managing Slips Part III: Other Approaches to Enhance Well-Being: Medication and Support 11. Choosing Among the Treatment Options for Anxiety and Depression: Considerations for Medication 12. Strengthening Your Support Network to Reduce Stress