Finding the Bright Side
I’m not going back to traditional therapy.
by Mia Johnson
April 6, 2022
Experiencing a miscarriage and welcoming my fourth child during the pandemic made it clear that I needed therapy. Ironically, the pandemic made it possible for me to seek help: virtual therapy significantly improved access to mental healthcare for many, especially mothers juggling busy schedules and hopefully napping infants nearby. For the first time, I was able to prioritize my own needs by simply logging onto a Zoom call. I have no intention of returning to in-person therapy, and neither do any of the mothers I know.
Embracing Telehealth for Self-Care
Although this wasn’t my initial encounter with therapy, the virtual format removed the logistical challenges that would have otherwise prevented me from meeting with a mental health professional during the pandemic and beyond. I’m not alone in this; a report from 2021 indicated that one in four respondents had used telehealth services recently. Eager to learn more, I contacted Dr. Sarah Lee, who emphasized that virtual therapy and mental health apps (like Talk Space) have become crucial for postpartum mothers during the pandemic. “As new parents, do you have the time to seek support for yourself, or even take a shower?” Instead of spending hours commuting, I dedicated just 45 minutes to talk to my therapist from the comfort of my home.
Both with and without depression, many postpartum parents need the restorative benefits that a virtual therapy session can provide. “Parents often give and give, leading to depletion, yet they don’t realize that they need to refuel and reset,” she says. This support equips parents with the tools to tackle relationship and balance challenges that may feel overwhelming. She frequently needs to remind parents that neurochemical shifts after childbirth can lead to feelings of sadness or anxiety. Therapy can help them reconnect with themselves.
While I didn’t officially have postpartum depression, dealing with the loss of a baby, trying to conceive for nearly a year, and managing the chaos of working and learning from home was taxing. I felt far from the self-care ideals often portrayed on social media, constantly wrestling with anxiety and work-life balance. One moment I was juggling quarantine schedules, work tasks, and homemade meals, and the next, I was overwhelmed by the daunting responsibility of keeping four children safe and mentally healthy in these challenging times. This was a common struggle among many mothers I knew during the pandemic.
Saving on Childcare Costs
Once I began virtual therapy, I noticed almost immediate improvements. I collaborated with my therapist on positive affirmations and explored the reasons behind my late-night searches about SIDS, feelings of inadequacy, and my worries about my child’s mental wellbeing. Plus, by only paying my copayment, I realized I was saving money I would have had to spend on a babysitter to attend in-person sessions. Many mothers may also be opting for virtual therapy as therapists have expanded their availability beyond traditional 9-5 hours, offering evening appointments as well.
Comfort at Home, but Some Drawbacks
Therapists have been able to assist clients who struggle to even get out of bed due to depression. Many find solace in the comfort of their homes, especially those who experience anxiety in public. “You can wear your favorite comfy clothes. You can sit on the floor, at the kitchen table, or even have your child with you while nursing or playing nearby,” she notes, contrasting this with traditional therapy where children are usually not allowed.
However, like any benefits of virtual life, there are some drawbacks. “There are things you can miss on screen,” Dr. Lee mentions, encouraging clients to keep their cameras on. “Observing non-verbal cues is crucial.” Some signs, like fidgeting or indications of self-harm, may go unnoticed. Building a strong relationship with your therapist can also feel less personal compared to face-to-face interactions. Dr. Lee suggests a mixed approach, acknowledging our desire for human connection while recognizing that virtual therapy is far superior to no support at all. Without the virtual mental health resources that the pandemic made possible, I would have struggled to find help now and in the future.
Mia Johnson is a freelance journalist and content creator based in Chicago, focusing on health, parenting, and lifestyle topics. When she’s not writing, Mia enjoys spending time with her four energetic children, who keep her days lively and full of surprises. With over a decade of experience, she connects readers with quality information in a relatable manner, having contributed to various publications including the Huffington Post, Reader’s Digest, and Women’s Health.
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Summary:
Virtual therapy has revolutionized postpartum mental health support, offering mothers the flexibility and convenience needed during challenging times. With the ability to connect from home, many mothers find it easier to prioritize their mental wellbeing, saving on childcare costs while accessing crucial support. Although there are some limitations to virtual sessions, the convenience and accessibility have made it a preferred option for many.
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