On March 11, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, and shortly thereafter, on April 10, a dear friend welcomed her newborn into the world. The preceding weeks were filled with anxiety and uncertainty. Where would she deliver? Would her partner be allowed in the delivery room? Who would care for her toddler while they were at the hospital?
While many of these questions faded after the baby was born, the stress remained. The sleepless nights began, she required assistance with breastfeeding, grocery shopping was a challenge, and her family and friends were unable to provide the support she desperately needed. My friend, the new mother, was recovering from a challenging delivery—while masked—operating on little sleep, and isolated from her support network, which included her partner.
Her experience is not an isolated incident. Babies did not heed the pandemic’s arrival; they continued to come into the world, bringing with them a host of new challenges for new mothers. Isolated from their usual support systems and navigating uncharted territory while severely sleep-deprived, these mothers are being asked to do the unimaginable.
It’s no surprise that a recent study revealed an increase in anxiety and depression among new mothers since the pandemic began. The research surveyed 900 women who were either pregnant or had recently given birth, and it identified a significant rise in maternal depression and anxiety due to COVID-19. The findings showed that 40.7% of women reported experiencing depression during the pandemic, compared to just 15% before it. Anxiety levels also surged, with 72% of respondents experiencing moderate to high anxiety, up from 29% pre-pandemic.
To delve deeper into these troubling statistics, we reached out to Sarah Mitchell, Director at the Center for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) at Riverside Medical Center, and Emily Carter, a social worker at the same institution. Sarah noted that calls to the Center have tripled since the pandemic began, aligning with the study’s findings of increased anxiety and depression.
Understanding the underlying reasons for this rise is essential. In an email, Sarah explained, “PMADs thrive on isolation and fear, and COVID-19 embodies both. Pregnant and new moms find themselves trapped in a web of anxiety, torn between the safety of their homes and a profound sense of loneliness, yearning for connection with others in similar situations.” This perfect storm affects mothers who are already susceptible to mood and anxiety disorders. The study found that typically, one in seven women experiences depression or anxiety during the perinatal period, even in a non-pandemic environment.
The pandemic has amplified the intrusive fears that plague new mothers, making it increasingly challenging to manage everyday life. Normal concerns have intensified, and now 90% of the calls PMADs receives are from women experiencing anxiety and panic attacks they previously managed with relative ease.
It is crucial to prioritize the mental health of new mothers. The study suggested that staying physically active during the pandemic could serve as a beneficial tool for pregnant and postpartum women, especially when access to traditional support and treatment is limited. It recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity weekly.
Emily provided a more comprehensive approach for new mothers. She emphasized that the most effective treatment combines individual therapy, peer support, and, if necessary, medication to manage overwhelming feelings of sadness or racing thoughts. She stressed the importance of self-care, maintaining healthy eating and sleep habits, and seeking the right support group. Many new mom support groups have successfully transitioned to virtual formats, including those at Motherhood Understood, TheBloomFoundation.org, and PostpartumProgress.com.
Recognizing the symptoms of PMADs in new mothers can be challenging. Emily pointed out that new mothers may not always exhibit typical signs of depression. Partners should be attentive to signs of anxiety or obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and create a space for open communication. “Just because she seems fine doesn’t mean she is,” she advises. If a mother expresses that she feels “not like herself,” it’s crucial to seek help.
New mothers already face vulnerabilities due to hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and shifts in brain chemistry. The pandemic exacerbates these challenges by isolating them from family and friends who could otherwise help, while introducing additional uncertainties.
However, it’s vital to remember that PMADs are temporary and treatable conditions, not lifelong psychiatric disorders. As Sarah reassured, “With appropriate treatment from trained professionals, every mother can return to feeling like herself.” Everyone who seeks help can improve.
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Summary:
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted new mothers, increasing their risk of anxiety and depression. Research indicates that many are struggling with isolation and fear, making it essential to prioritize their mental health. Effective treatment includes a combination of therapy, peer support, and self-care. It’s also crucial for partners to be aware of symptoms and provide support. With proper help, new mothers can navigate these challenges and regain their sense of self.
Keyphrase: postpartum mental health during pandemic
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