Managing postpartum depression: New moms isolated by coronavirus pandemic

The chances are that up to one-in-five women develop postpartum depression. It is a condition that can negatively affect the mood, emotions, and behavior of mothers and the mental wellbeing of their partners and children.

The transition to parenthood following birth is not easy in normal circumstances, and even more so when dealing with an epidemic spreading across the globe. Being concerned about the risk of exposure to COVID-19 with recommendations for physical distancing could exacerbate depression and make it harder to access the services, like health care and social services, that women commonly employ to help build resilience and encourage recovery.

Despite these issues, There are several ways women suffering from postpartum depression can follow to boost their mental wellbeing and flourish in the face of COVID-19.

Amplified risk factors

Postpartum depression results from a complex interplay of psychological, biological, and social risk factors. All of these are intensified due to the current pandemic. My research, which focuses on improving women’s access to psychotherapies and developing postnatal depression treatment guidelines in conjunction with my clinical work as a psychiatrist, has revealed the potential of women suffering from postpartum depression in their capacity to cope with adversity.

Many women who suffer from postpartum depression are worried about COVID-19 and how they’ll be able to cope at home with their infant (and other children). While distancing is a crucial step in stopping COVID-19’s spread, disease, they limit some of the most effective tools women have to fight postpartum depression. It is not just difficult for women to receive help in a social setting as well, but being near children or partners can create conflicts and hinder the ability to adjust to the newborn baby.

Despite these issues, There are plenty of ways in which women suffering from postpartum depression can lessen the effects of COVID-19 on their mental wellbeing. This epidemic could even offer women and their families new opportunities to prosper.

Online sources

The first is that many doctors or other psychotherapists offer appointments via telephone or online, while public health also makes various services accessible via the internet. Psychology Today is a different resource for information about therapists offering paid services via the phone or Internet. Emergency departments in hospitals are a crucial consideration for women needing emergency assistance.

Various online resources are available to help women suffering from postpartum depression. Many offer support by phone or text messages, and apps like Peanut (a social network app designed explicitly for motherhood), MindMum and Lifeline4Moms could be helpful to women struggling. Numerous cognitive-behavioral therapy programs are also accessible on the internet for free, including those from the British Columbia Reproductive Mental Health Program and Moodgym.

Prioritizing self-care

A conscious awareness of the modifications to your lifestyle that could help improve the mental wellbeing of women suffering from postpartum depression may also assist them to recover. A routine (as much as can be tolerated for infants) focusing on self-care based on the principles of NEST-S (Nutrition and Exercise and Time for Self and Help) is essential. The first step is having a bath every day, changing into dress for the day, and opening the blinds, which are a great way to start the day.

The importance of healthy nutrition for mothers should be emphasized. Try to take three meals each day and access an assortment of easily prepared snacks. Keeping a bottle of water close by to keep well hydrated is also an excellent way to improve the brain’s functioning.

It can be tricky (particularly in the present); however, since it can improve mood, energy, and sleep, it’s worth putting it on the top of your list. Fun, short, and simple activities (such as walking) are ideal. If they expose women to the outdoors, then all the better (as long that the physical distancing guidelines are adhered to).

Sleep is essential. Baby naps when baby is asleep or feeds at night, splitting the meal 50/50 between partners, and following the best habits for sleep hygiene methods, like keeping a consistent bedtime routine and staying clear of caffeine and alcohol at night, could be beneficial.

Research has shown that mothers work up to 164.5 hours a week caring for their children indirectly and directly to babies.

In most instances, they are always on call to provide baby care even if they’re asleep and are off for 30 minutes daily. In light of the demands, a healthy mental health is best achieved by having breaks. These can be spent in relaxation or doing relaxing or stimulating things, such as walking and reading.

Relaxation techniques such as the Box breathing technique that can help alleviate stress and the gradual relaxation of muscles are beneficial for mothers who struggle with anxiety or feel overwhelmed.

COVID-19 presents unique barriers

The proper support is essential for the mental health of mothers. But COVID-19 has its challenges to engaging support, particularly those outside the home. Partners are the ideal first option, but when one isn’t available (or competent) or available, it might be beneficial to seek assistance from friends or family members. It’s essential to ensure that everyone who comes into contact with pregnant women or infants is at a low risk of contracting the coronavirus.

Raising a child while dealing with postpartum depression can be complex and requires various creative solutions. Videoconference calls and telephone calls with relatives and friends are also helpful in goal-setting and the sameness of social and personal time.

Because many couples may be away from home, COVID-19 gives teams a unique opportunity to collaborate. Discussions on labor division that consider the strengths and weaknesses of partners will result in efficient strategies to maximize breaks, sleep, and other enjoyable activities.

Women’s partners who have postpartum depression may be able to help by offering practical assistance (for instance, feeding at night and chores at home) and help, while keeping in mind that just listening (without needing any obligation to “fix” problems) can be beneficial.

Perhaps the most important thing is knowing that postpartum depression improves and the COVID-19 epidemic will end. Self-care, compassion, and engaging your partner in the path to recovery help enhance the wellbeing of mothers and their families and strengthen bonds in the long run.