The Paradox of Hope: Navigating Uncertainty and Possibility in Infertility

By Megan Keyes, Ph.D.

Posted: June 20, 2026

When we think about maternal mental health, our minds often go to pregnancy and the postpartum period. Far less attention is given to what comes before - the often long, complex, and emotionally-taxing journey of infertility and fertility treatment. Host Elex Simon recently invited me to discuss this topic on the Mental Mixology podcast as part of Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. During that conversation, I shared both my professional perspective as a psychologist and portions of my own family-building journey. While my husband and I spent 13 years navigating infertility and exploring assorted options, what stood out most to me in reflecting on that experience were not the details of our story, but the broader psychological lessons it offered.

Pure O(CD)--When Your Mind Will Not Stop: A Guide to Understanding OCD and Specialized Care

By Courtney Worley, Ph.D., ABPP, DBSM, M.P.H.

OCD

Anxiety Treatment

Posted: June 14, 2026

Mental compulsions are one of the most misunderstood and under-diagnosed features of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Often individuals with mental rituals are misdiagnosed, undertreated, or told that what they are doing — trying to think their way out of anxiety — is actually the right approach. The skill of learning to challenge thoughts is standard practice in many therapies and is effective in many disorders. In OCD, it is not. And understanding why is the first step toward real relief.

Postpartum Mental Health

By Katherine Cofer, Ph.D.

Postpartum

Anxiety Depression Postpartum Health Treatment

Posted: May 15, 2026

The postpartum period can be a time of joy, excitement, and wonder, right alongside frustration, isolation, and exhaustion. While there are mental health challenges that can arise during the prepartum period, the changes experienced after that little bundle of joy arrives can be dramatic in terms of physical differences, routine changes, role adjustments, financial stress, and many other elements. These combine to create a space that leaves many women vulnerable to new or worsening mental health symptoms.

Pregnancy and Mental Health

By Katherine Cofer, Ph.D.

Pregnancy Transitions

Anxiety Depression Sleep

Posted: February 27, 2026

Pregnancy is a time of excitement and joy for many people. It comes with anticipation and celebration of new things. However, it is also a significant stressor as life can change dramatically in just a few months. Maintaining good physical and mental health are critical during this time. There is an increase in mental health conditions during pregnancy for some people due to myriad factors. Understanding not only what can happen to mental health during pregnancy, but also what can be done about it is vitally important.