Acute kidney injury and mortality in cirrhosis: a nationwide analysis of clinical outcomes, resource utilization, and effect modification.
Authors: Tai B, Okonkwo C, Riviera A
Journal: BMC nephrology
mental health
psychology
open access
Abstract
Pregnancy is a period in a woman’s life that involves profound changes not only physiologically, but also emotionally and socially. During this process, women face challenges such as increased responsibilities, physical changes, hormonal fluctuations, and adapting to the role of motherhood. Uncertainty, feelings of loss of control, and concerns about childbirth are among the common psychological consequences of pregnancy-related anxiety [, ]. Worldwide, approximately 15–23% of pregnant women experience pregnancy-related anxiety [, ]. It has been reported that anxiety levels increase, particularly in the third trimester, and that this is due to factors such as approaching delivery and concerns about fetal health []. Understanding these psychological difficulties experienced during pregnancy requires assessing not only anxiety but also the woman’s overall well-being. Well-being is a multidimensional concept that encompasses not only physical health but also an individual’s psychological and social functioning. It is defined by the World Health Organization as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” []. High levels of well-being are associated with better mental balance, strong interpersonal relationships, a positive disposition, and healthier cognitive patterns []. In contrast, emotional regulation deficits, anxiety, and prenatal depression have been shown to be associated with maternal and neonatal complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and postpartum depression []. Therefore, supporting psychological well-being during pregnancy is critically important for both maternal and infant health [, ]. At the same time, the mother’s compassionate approach towards herself is also an important factor that supports psychological well-being. Self-compassion is a learnable emotion regulation strategy that enables individuals to develop a gentle, understanding, and non-judgmental attitude toward themselves in the face of stressful life events []. Self-acceptance is known to be associated with many positive psychological variables such as life satisfaction, happiness, and psychological resilience []. During pregnancy, high levels of self-compassion have been shown to ease the transition to motherhood and reduce depressive symptoms, anxiety, and sleep problems [, ]. In this context, self-compassion is considered a potential resource for maintaining mental health during pregnancy.