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I’ve never considered myself to be someone who is overly anxious. Perhaps that’s just my way of denying it. If you were to look up anxiety in the dictionary, you might find a picture of me hyperventilating into a brown paper bag right beside it. I’m practically the poster child for “nervous Nelly.”
It’s hard to say exactly when I came to terms with my anxiety, but admitting it has really helped me navigate adulthood. I’ve identified my triggers and have developed coping strategies that don’t involve medication (though I’m not a professional, so definitely consult your doctor, okay?).
That was all before the pandemic hit.
And what exacerbates anxiety? The unknown. Add to that a cocktail of pregnancy hormones, and voila! I’ve created my own special blend of anxiety during a global health crisis.
Don’t get me wrong—my baby is the best thing that’s happened to me in the last 15+ months. When I start to spiral, her sweet smiles and coos are my source of comfort. I thank the universe nightly for her and her siblings. Yet, the panic is still there.
Instead of focusing on typical new mom worries, like whether my baby is breathing during her naps, I’m grappling with thoughts like: “Is that breath normal? Why is she congested? What germs did her brothers bring home?” Rather than enjoying her warm cuddles, I’m constantly checking her temperature. I’ve used the forehead thermometer more times than I can count.
I’m truly not functioning the way I want to.
It’s not just about the baby, either. Whenever anyone in the house so much as sneezes, I feel my heart race and the tension rise. I’m on edge all the time. And with what seems like the worst allergy season ever, I can’t help but worry about lung infections. I keep telling myself we’re just one sneeze away from COVID crashing back into our lives.
Then there’s the concern for people outside our home. It feels like adults are handling the pandemic worse than kids. I can’t trust anyone to social distance, wear masks, get vaccinated, or even wash their hands properly. Why can’t everyone just follow basic hygiene?
When I first found out I was pregnant last fall, I hoped that by the time my baby arrived, COVID would be a thing of the past. We’d be traveling, attending school without panic, and enjoying life freely again. But instead, I find myself managing the challenges of postpartum life while constantly reminding my older kids to keep their masks on and to avoid touching anything without washing their hands first. It’s a loop I never signed up for.
I’ve started avoiding the news because just hearing the word “COVID” sends me spiraling into a two-hour doomscroll. I’ve prepared for every worst-case scenario regarding COVID and have a vitamin regimen that’s longer than my six-year-old’s Christmas wishlist. The mix of pandemic stress, anxiety, and newborn fatigue has turned me into someone I barely recognize. I can’t wait for this to be over.
The Delta variant is truly robbing me of the joy that usually accompanies the postpartum period. I know things will get better eventually, but for now, I’m really struggling. Just a little prayer for me would be appreciated.
If you’re looking for more insights on navigating parenthood during these challenging times, check out this engaging content. You can also find helpful resources at this link and here.
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- dealing with postpartum anxiety
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In summary, the Delta variant has significantly heightened my postpartum anxiety, making it difficult to enjoy the joys of new motherhood. The constant worry about my baby’s health and the pandemic’s uncertainties have left me feeling overwhelmed. I look forward to better days ahead, but right now, it’s a tough journey.
Keyphrase: Delta variant postpartum anxiety
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