The pandemic has been tough for everyone. The loss, fear, anxiety, and isolation surrounding the COVID-19 has created unprecedented struggle for families across the world. Adjusting to a ‘new normal’ presents a unique set of challenges- especially for pregnant women, women about to give birth, or new moms.
1 in 5 women experience PMADs
CDC research shows that one in five women experience PMADs or perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. COVID-19 has only intensified some of the struggles that can accompany bringing a baby into this world, specifically those surrounding mental health.
Managing your emotional well-being during pregnancy has always been an essential part of care. Now, for those pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever. Some of the new stressors women are facing include:
- Fear of catching the virus (or fear of a loved one catching it)
- Readjusting your birth plan and expectations
- Balancing new roles and responsibilities (work from home, school from home, multiple kids, etc.)
- Hospitals and facilities limiting birth support persons
- The delicacy of making rules about visits from friends and relatives
These are unprecedented times, and we know that women and mothers often bear a disproportionate share of the brunt of family stress. Almost overnight, our routines were turned upside down. It’s understandable for mothers and pregnant women to be feeling the emotional impact of COVID-19. Many find themselves managing new roles and demands, making it almost impossible to create work/life balance.
Don’t hesitate to contact a psychiatrist. There is help.
The Realities NYC Moms Face During COVID-19
In New York City, pregnant women and mothers face additional challenges. Returning to a smaller apartment from a second home, taking a vacation and then having to quarantine for two weeks pre-school start, or living in an apartment that’s much smaller than your suburban dwelling friends, can make things even more stressful!
In New York City, pregnant women and mothers face additional challenges.
It’s important to think about what you are thinking and how you are feeling as a new mom. Watch out for signs of Postpartum Depression that can include:
- Feeling guilty about not being a good mom or doubting your ability to care for the baby
- Crying more often than usual
- Feelings of anger
- Withdrawing from loved ones
- Worrying that you will hurt the baby
- Thoughts of hurting yourself
ZULRESSO™ (brexanolone) Provides A New Path For Relief of PPD Symptoms
The path out of postpartum depression isn’t always straightforward. Some mothers improve with talk therapy alone. Others may need medication to treat postpartum depression, anxiety, or OCD. For mother’s suffering from PPD, ZULRESSO™ (brexanolone) can help you feel better in 2.5 days. PPD is one of the most common medical complications during and after pregnancy. It is important to take care of yourself because experiencing symptoms of PPD may have consequences. You should know that PPD is treatable with your doctor’s help.
You don’t have to push through it! Postpartum Depression is treatable. Dr. Itzkoff is one of only a handful of Psychiatrists in the United States specializing in this relatively new and under-served field of care. If you find yourself suffering from a mood or psychiatric condition relating to your reproductive cycle, Dr. Itzkoff is here to help with compassionate and professional care and the most up-to-date treatment options for this specialized field of care including ZULRESSO™ (brexanolone) for Postpartum Depression.
Dr. Itzkoff is one of only a handful of Psychiatrists in the United States specializing in this … field of care.
Please contact our office at 917-982-2184 if you would like to inquire about our treatment services available.