Being a Mom is Tough – But You Are Not Alone

Many women experience depression and/or anxiety after the birth of a child, something they did not expect to feel.

Having a baby can be the most wonderful time in life. It can also be the hardest. Many women experience postpartem depression and/or anxiety after the birth of a child, something they did not expect to feel. New moms who had babies during the pandemic had added struggles with postpartum adjustments. Isolation, restrictions affecting in-person appointments and birth plans, unknowns of the future, and fear of health and safety negatively impacted new mothers and families. It is important to know that there is help and ways to cope, even thrive, in this difficult time.

During the perinatal stage (pregnancy and after birth), women can experience symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. In rare cases they may suffer from mania or psychosis. Some factors that can cause perinatal mental health issues include: hormonal triggers, genetic predisposition, family mental health history, unresolved loss, cultural stress, history of a mood disorder, an unsupportive partner, history of trauma, and financial insecurity.

It is important to know that if you are experiencing postpartum depression and/or anxiety, you are not alone. These symptoms are highly treatable and there are steps you can take now to start feeling better.

Give yourself permission to be where you are emotionally right now. Tap into your support system. Try to be mindful of eating healthy food, while also allowing for some indulgences. Prioritize sleep and rest. Try to get outside as much as possible. Move your body and engage with activities that are meaningful. Try to limit social media and news as needed. Engage with a supportive spiritual community. Be willing to be flexible with your expectations. Most importantly, let others help you and ask if you need it.

If the suggestions above are not causing improvement in mood or functioning, reach out to your medical provider for help. Take advantage of a virtual support group or access telehealth counseling services. Reach out to a friend or family member and let them know how you are feeling. If you are experiencing severe symptoms or do not feel safe, please know it is ok to seek emergency services. Perinatal adjustment can be difficult. But women do not have to suffer by themselves. There is help and support.

Saint Alphonsus Family Center in Boise offers telehealth counseling and virtual support groups.

Postpartum Support International offers virtual supports groups and have local volunteers that offer free phone/email support.

Miriam Hunter, LCPC and Trista Kovach, LCPC are Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors at the Saint Alphonsus Family Center in Boise.