Postpartum and coronovirus

Having a new baby right now may be very scary. Under normal circumstances, having a new baby is overwhelming. But now add the increased fear of your baby’s health, your own health, and your family’s health. Add the social isolation, where previously you may have planned on family or friends to come help or at least keep you company. Add the stress of being stuck at home or even feeling “trapped.” Add the uncertainty of not being able to have enough diapers or right type of baby food or formula. Add the nervousness of fear of corona contamination as you walk into the doctor’s office for your baby’s check up. Add the added stress of new financial concerns due to the state of the economy. Add concerns for the world. That’s a lot! Remember, you are not alone. One in five new moms suffer from a postpartum mood disorder and we can assume it is even higher at this time. Remember that this is TEMPORARY. Sheltering in place is temporary as is this stage of your baby’s life. Week by week, month by month gets easier as you and your baby get more into a routine. Don’t compare your insides to other women’s outsides. Instagram does not show how people are really feeling and you can bet there are a ton of women who are struggling right now. Have self compassion. This is hard and what you are feeling is normal and expected. If you feel you need more support than your village can provide, please reach out to a professional. Many therapists are providing video conferencing right now. You are not alone.