356: Behind The Sessions: Loneliness and Isolation

The transition to motherhood can bring feelings of loneliness as life forces a new schedule and new priorities. A new mom’s responsibilities are never-ending, along with the added stress of insufficient sleep and managing a new normal in the household. Our society is set up such that a mom is most often the default parent, and this can lead to a disconnect in the relationship. As we will discuss in this episode, loneliness is about much more than just being alone. Join me for more on this topic! Show Highlights: Moms can be surrounded by people and still feel alone because they aren’t connected, supported, and understood. Dealing with a limited bandwidth for conversation and connection to a partner The value of feeling connected to a like-minded community What loneliness looks and feels like Finding connection and understanding through therapy, support groups, and a supportive community A cultural system that isn’t set up to be supportive for new moms so they know what’s normal and what isn’t normal How we fail new moms by letting them float around until they “figure it out” Let me know how you’ve experienced loneliness, the impacts you’ve noticed, and your thoughts on how we can offer better support. Email me! Resources: Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be a better support in offering services.  You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!