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Experiencing a miscarriage and welcoming my fourth child during the pandemic made it abundantly clear that I needed therapy. Ironically, the pandemic allowed me to access virtual therapy, which opened the door to mental healthcare for many, especially mothers juggling busy schedules and hopefully napping babies nearby. For the first time, I could prioritize my own needs by simply joining a Zoom call. Now, I have no intention of going back to traditional in-person therapy, and neither do most moms I know.
Embracing Telehealth for Self-Care
Although I had sought therapy before, the virtual format removed the logistical hurdles that would have otherwise prevented me from meeting with a mental health professional during these challenging times. I’m not alone in this experience; a 2021 report indicated that one in four people had used telehealth services the previous month. Intrigued, I reached out to Dr. Maya Torres, who noted that for mothers grappling with postpartum mental health issues, both online therapy and mental health apps like Talk Space have become essential during the pandemic. “As new parents, do you have the time to seek support for yourself, let alone take a shower?” Instead of spending hours commuting, I could dedicate just 45 minutes to speak with my therapist from the comfort of my home.
Dr. Torres emphasized that parents often focus solely on giving and end up feeling depleted. “They don’t realize, ‘I need to refuel and reset,’” she explained, highlighting how therapy equips parents with the tools to tackle relationship and balance challenges that can seem overwhelming. She frequently reminds parents that neurochemical shifts common in the postpartum period can lead to feelings of sadness or distress, and therapy serves as a path to rediscovering oneself.
While I didn’t officially have postpartum depression, the loss of a baby, nearly a year of trying to conceive, and the chaos of working and learning from home left me exhausted. I felt far from the self-care ideals portrayed on Instagram, as I struggled with anxiety and the demands of parenting during lockdown. One moment I was coordinating quarantine schedules and meal prep, and the next, I was overwhelmed with the fear of managing four children’s well-being in such trying circumstances—a common struggle among mothers in the pandemic.
Budget-Friendly Therapy Options
Once I began therapy via Zoom, I noticed significant changes almost immediately. I worked with my therapist on mantras and delved into the reasons behind my late-night worries about SIDS, my frustration with balancing life’s demands, and the guilt I felt regarding my child’s mental health issues. Plus, with only a copay for each session, I realized I was saving the money I would have otherwise spent on a babysitter just to attend in-person therapy. Moms are also opting for virtual therapy because therapists are now offering sessions beyond the traditional 9-to-5 schedule, allowing for more flexibility.
Comfort at Home, but Some Drawbacks
Many clients are more comfortable in their own spaces, especially those who struggle with anxiety. “You can wear your favorite comfy clothes, sit wherever you like, and even have your child nearby if needed,” Dr. Torres noted, explaining that in-person therapy usually restricts children from attending.
However, like all conveniences, there are trade-offs. “There are certain nuances that might be missed on a screen,” Dr. Torres cautioned, encouraging clients to keep their video on. “Observing behaviors that aren’t verbally expressed is crucial.” She also acknowledged the difficulty in forming a strong connection with a therapist online, suggesting a blended approach of virtual and in-person sessions when possible. “We are human beings who crave that personal connection, but virtual therapy is certainly better than nothing,” she added. Without the virtual mental health access that the pandemic made possible, my journey toward healing would have been far more challenging.
For more insights on home insemination and related topics, you can explore additional articles like this one on our blog.
For those looking to learn more about home insemination options, Make a Mom is an excellent resource. Additionally, the March of Dimes provides valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, virtual therapy has reshaped my postpartum journey, allowing me to prioritize my mental health in a way that feels accessible and manageable. The flexibility and comfort of telehealth have made a significant difference in my life, and I believe it can do the same for many others navigating similar challenges.