Emerging research highlights the strong link between a mother's mental health during pregnancy and her child's early development. However, urging mothers-to-be to 'stay positive' without acknowledging their complex emotions can backfire, experts warn.
- Mental health in pregnancy affects child’s cognitive and emotional growth
- Telling mums to ‘just be happy’ may add stress instead of relief
- Simple, mindful self-care and emotional awareness are key supports
What happened
Recent research from Singapore reveals a clear connection between maternal mental health during pregnancy and the cognitive and emotional development of their children. The study, published in 2026, found that untreated stress and anxiety in pregnancy may increase the risk of developmental challenges and depression in children later on.
However, experts caution that the common encouragement for pregnant women to remain 'positive and happy' can do more harm than good. Pregnancy involves physical discomforts, hormonal shifts, and emotional upheaval, all contributing to a wide range of feelings. Simply telling mothers to suppress or avoid negative emotions overlooks these realities and may increase feelings of guilt and isolation.
Why it feels good
Acknowledging that mental health includes a spectrum of emotions—even those considered negative—helps normalize the pregnancy experience. Experts emphasize that feeling sadness, anxiety, or frustration does not mean something is wrong; rather, these emotions are natural parts of adapting to new life changes.
By fostering emotional awareness and curiosity about feelings instead of categorizing them as good or bad, expectant mothers can better cope with stress. This inclusive approach enables mothers to maintain mental resilience and reduces pressure to 'perform' happiness, ultimately benefiting their overall well-being and their babies’ development.
What to enjoy or watch next
Instead of waiting for big moments of self-care, simple everyday pleasures are powerful. Experts recommend focusing fully on small positive experiences like sipping a hot cup of coffee, spending time outdoors, or reading a book to enhance well-being moment by moment. These mindful habits build emotional reserves and create a more grounded pregnancy journey.
Further, preserving parts of one’s identity beyond motherhood—such as nurturing friendships, engaging in hobbies, or maintaining career interests—provides emotional balance. These strategies together form a healthier, guilt-free approach to mental wellness that benefits both mothers and their developing children.