We all know that chronic stress leaves us feeling exhausted and worn out. But what if that stress becomes an actual medical condition like depression or anxiety? All three scenarios can negatively impact your physical and mental wellness!
Pregnancy during the coronavirus has been difficult for many expectant moms, with a slew of new worries about a novel virus with unknown effects on pregnancy.
Anxiety and depression before, during and after pregnancy — a range of conditions known as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders — happen to more women than you might imagine. These disorders are activated through the many hormonal and environmental changes that happen to a woman before and after pregnancy.
Once a struggle only discussed in whispers behind closed doors, this serious condition is becoming more widely acknowledged. And it should be. Postpartum depression affects about 20% of women after giving birth and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association reports it’s on the rise, up to roughly 30%.
Healthcare providers are worried about an even bigger jump in these kinds of mood disorders during these challenging times, driven by:
The pandemic has made access to care more difficult for some patients who are unable to see their doctor in person or are worried about venturing to a medical office. Many OB/GYN physicians say they are beginning to see an increase in anxiety and depression among pregnant and postpartum patients.
The pandemic can add yet ANOTHER depression or anxiety trigger to an already stressful time.
Many new parents are also confused about whether they are experiencing the “baby blues” or something more serious.
|
The “Baby Blues” |
Post-Partum Depression or Anxiety |
|
Lasts 2-14 days |
Lasts 15+ days |
|
Starts after giving birth |
Can start during pregnancy or after giving birth |
|
Mood swings |
Depressed mood or severe mood swings |
|
Feeling overwhelmed |
Overwhelmed to the point of struggling to bond with your baby |
|
General feelings of anxiety |
Insomnia Restlessness Severe anxiety and panic attacks Obsessing over the health of your baby |
|
Irritability |
Withdrawing from family and friends Intense irritability and anger |
|
Feeling tired or worn down |
Loss of appetite or eating much more than usual Overwhelming fatigue Hopelessness Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt or inadequacy |
|
Not feeling like you are “on your game” |
Diminished ability to think clearly, concentrate or make decisions Fear that you're not a good mother |
|
Worrying in general |
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide |
Postpartum mood disorders are not good for mom OR baby and require the intervention of a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Sambunaris & Associates now offers both:
Call us today to find out how we can help mother and child to thrive in these challenging times!
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