For the past two months, I’ve been at home with my newborn due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The last time I ventured out was for my daughter’s two-month check-up, and shortly after that, my husband expressed his concerns about COVID-19. We decided to isolate voluntarily, which quickly turned into nationwide lockdowns.
I feel incredibly fortunate to be managing well, especially considering my mental health has remained stable this time around. Had I experienced this pandemic after the births of my older children, I would have likely faced a crisis. I dealt with severe postpartum anxiety and moderate postpartum depression for nearly six months each time after my boys were born, and the isolation during that period would have been detrimental to my well-being.
Even with support, I struggled immensely after my second child was born. I was skilled at masking my feelings, but the weight of my anxious thoughts was heavy. I spent countless hours envisioning worst-case scenarios, feeling trapped in a mental prison, convinced that I wouldn’t be able to keep my baby safe. Maintaining connections with friends and family during that time was crucial for my survival.
The Challenges of New Motherhood During a Pandemic
Welcoming a newborn is challenging under any circumstances, but doing so amidst a global crisis adds an extra layer of difficulty. New moms are often left to navigate this phase without the anticipated support from friends or family. This creates a precarious situation for those who may already be vulnerable to postpartum depression and other mood disorders.
Women who are pregnant now had expected to bring their babies into a familiar world, but instead, they face an altered reality where traditional support systems are absent. According to Dr. Lisa Grant, a specialist in maternal mental health, the stress and isolation brought about by COVID-19 can significantly worsen anxiety and depression in new mothers. She states, “The disruption and stress we’re experiencing are bound to have adverse mental health effects, especially for vulnerable groups like new mothers.”
Many new moms are understandably feeling a wave of sadness. I certainly didn’t anticipate this scenario; I envisioned warm spring evenings spent with friends and family, sharing joyful moments with my little one. Instead, I find myself in the same rocking chair day after day, surrounded by the same four walls, grappling with uncertainty.
Unique Challenges Faced by New Moms
Moms who have given birth since the pandemic began face unique challenges: they may have missed out on their ideal birth experience, the chance to introduce their newborns to loved ones, and they may feel a profound sense of loss. Financial instability and job insecurity add to the weight of this unprecedented time.
Supporting New Mothers
So, what can we do to support these new mothers? It’s crucial to remain attentive to their needs. While community support may look different now, it is more vital than ever. We should familiarize ourselves with the signs of postpartum depression and mood disorders, ensuring we watch over the new moms in our lives. While we shelter in place to protect vulnerable populations from COVID-19, we must also remember that new mothers are in need of support.
You may not be able to drop by with a casserole or offer to hold the baby while she showers, but you can deliver meals on her doorstep and schedule video calls to maintain that emotional connection. Coordinate with her friends and family to create a check-in schedule that ensures she feels cared for. Offer to run errands, and show genuine interest in her baby’s milestones to help her feel recognized and supported.
Don’t overlook moms with slightly older infants either. Though postpartum mood disorders are most common shortly after childbirth, they can develop any time within the first year or beyond.
Understanding Postpartum Mood Disorders
New moms should know that postpartum mood disorders are prevalent and not something to feel ashamed of. They can range from mild “baby blues” to severe crises. If you find yourself struggling during this challenging time, remember that help is available, and you deserve to feel healthy and supported.
For those facing postpartum mood or mental health challenges, resources are available to help. You can find additional information about navigating these feelings at our blog post here, or check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination here.
Conclusion
In summary, the isolation brought on by the pandemic has heightened the challenges for new mothers battling postpartum depression. It’s essential to maintain connections and provide support, even from a distance. By being proactive, we can help ensure that these mothers feel seen, heard, and cared for during this tumultuous time.