ABSTRACT
Anxiety is a natural and normal response to situations that seem threatening, dangerous, or risky. Mild or moderate levels of anxiety keep us safe by motivating us to protect ourselves (and others) or by pushing us to work harder to meet important goals (e.g., getting ready in advance for the arrival of a new baby). Most women report at least some anxiety during pregnancy or the postpartum. Anxiety becomes a problem, however, when it is much more intense than we would expect or when it interferes with day-to-day functioning. Chapter 1 explores the different components of anxiety, including the biological basis of anxiety and the fight or flight response, the physical sensations that come with anxiety, and the nature of our thoughts (e.g., worry) when we are feeling anxious. This chapter will also help women identify all of the other (non-biological) changes that are likely to occur during pregnancy and the postpartum that may contribute to their distress. This information will help to highlight the areas where change is needed and where the strategies that are learned in this workbook will be most helpful.
