Following an abortion, many women experience a variety of emotions. Some may feel relief at first, but feelings of guilt, stress, and sadness can often follow. Women deserve to know how this procedure can impact mental health and wellness.
What Is Mental Health?
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defines mental health as “our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.”
Today, mental health is a hot topic because society realizes its key role in our lives and happiness. Protecting your mental health and wellness is just as important as physical health. So then, it’s essential to know the early warning signs that you or someone you know may be experiencing mental health concerns. Some of these signs include:
- Feeling empty, numb.
- Feeling hopeless or helpless.
- Feeling confused, forgetful, on edge, upset, worried, or scared.
- Becoming upset with family and friends.
- Having severe mood swings.
- Having constant thoughts that are difficult to push out of your mind.
- Contemplating self-harm or harming others.
- Inability to do daily tasks.
If you believe you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, please reach out to a medical professional or someone you trust. Mental health cannot always be seen, but it is deeply experienced and does matter.
Is There a Connection Between Mental Health and Abortion?
The National Library of Medicine states, “…abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.”
After much research, this study also concludes that “some women do have significant mental health issues that are caused, triggered, aggravated, or complicated by their abortion experience.”
The Cleveland Clinic states that commonly experienced emotions are:
- Stress
- Sadness
- Guilt
Since sources suggest mental health does take a toll after an abortion, women need to be aware of these impacts to help safeguard their wellness. Speak with a trusted physician or pregnancy center to understand how abortion can impact your mental health.
Who Can I Speak To?
Contact us today if you want to receive counseling on what abortion can mean to your mental wellness. We are here to answer concerns and questions and provide the necessary resources to protect your health.
If you would like to find healing after an abortion, we also offer post-abortion support because you deserve more.
We believe your mental and physical health is important and deserves to be protected. We are here to be your advocate and seek out the answers you need together.