On March 11, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, and just weeks later, a dear friend welcomed a new baby into the world. In the days leading up to her delivery, she faced immense stress, uncertainty, and a barrage of daunting questions: Where would she give birth? Would her partner be allowed in the delivery room? Who would care for her toddler while they were in the hospital?
Once the baby arrived, those questions faded, but the anxiety persisted. The newborn struggled with sleep, breastfeeding proved challenging, and with grocery shopping becoming a hurdle, her usual support network was unavailable. My friend, the new mother, was navigating recovery from a taxing delivery—while wearing a mask—functioning on little to no sleep, all while juggling the needs of a lively toddler.
Her experience is far from unique. Babies were not deterred by the pandemic; they continued to arrive as scheduled, and new moms faced unprecedented hurdles in the weeks following childbirth. Isolated from their usual support systems and expected to manage in an unfamiliar and unpredictable world, new mothers are often feeling overwhelmed.
It’s no surprise, then, that recent research indicates a significant rise in anxiety and depression among new moms during the pandemic. A study involving 900 women who were either pregnant or within their first year postpartum revealed a staggering increase in maternal depression and anxiety during this period. Pre-pandemic, only 15% of women reported experiencing depression; during the pandemic, that number surged to 40.7%. Additionally, the percentage of respondents experiencing moderate to high anxiety increased from 29% to 72%.
To better understand these alarming statistics, we spoke with Sarah Nielson, a director at the Center for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) at Riverside Medical Center, and Jenna Kline, a social worker at the same facility. They emphasized a troubling rise in calls to their center since the onset of COVID-19, supporting the findings of the study.
Nielson explained that PMADs thrive in environments characterized by isolation and fear, which makes the pandemic a particularly challenging time for pregnant and new mothers. She noted that these women find themselves in a painful predicament—yearning for connection yet afraid to leave the safety of their homes. This creates a perfect storm for those already vulnerable to mood and anxiety disorders.
The pandemic has amplified intrusive “what if” fears that plague many new mothers, making everyday functioning increasingly difficult. Nielson noted that the concerns that were once manageable are now heightened. The center has seen a surge in calls from women experiencing anxiety and panic attacks, which they previously managed more effectively.
It is crucial that we prioritize the mental health of new mothers. Research suggests that maintaining physical activity during the pandemic could be beneficial for pregnant and postpartum women, especially when access to traditional support and resources is limited. Experts recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly.
Kline offered a more comprehensive array of strategies for new mothers. She emphasized the importance of therapy, peer support, and medication when necessary. Taking time for self-care, prioritizing nutrition, and ensuring adequate sleep are essential. Many support groups for new mothers have successfully transitioned to virtual platforms, including resources like Motherhood Unplugged, TheBloomFoundation.org, and PostpartumProgress.com.
Recognizing the signs of postpartum struggles can be challenging. Kline urges partners to be vigilant about their loved one’s emotional state, suggesting that symptoms of anxiety or OCD might not be as visible as expected. If a new mother seems “off” or expresses concerns about her mental health, it’s vital to seek help.
New mothers are inherently at risk due to hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and brain chemistry shifts. The pandemic exacerbates these challenges by isolating them from their usual support networks and introducing heightened uncertainty in their lives.
However, it’s important to remember that PMADs are temporary and treatable conditions, not lifelong psychiatric disorders. With appropriate treatment from trained professionals, every mother has the potential to regain her sense of self. “Every woman who seeks help can improve,” Nielson reassures. “With the right PMAD-specific support, every mama can return to her true self.”
For more information on mental health in motherhood, check out our other post on health risks related to postpartum issues at homeinsemination.gay. For expert insights into intrauterine insemination, visit Cleveland Clinic and learn more at intracervicalinsemination.com.
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Summary:
The pandemic has significantly impacted postpartum mothers, increasing levels of anxiety and depression. New mothers are facing unique challenges, including isolation and lack of support. It’s essential to prioritize their mental health through physical activity, therapy, and peer support. Recognizing the signs of PMADs is crucial, and with appropriate treatment, recovery is possible.