Many individuals who take care of and serve others in our communities, whether by profession or within one’s family system, struggle with self-care. They are prone to neglecting their own wellness, experiencing high levels of burn out, vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, posttraumatic stress, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and health issues. More than ever, these folks are on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mothers have been caring for and educating their children while juggling work and many other life responsibilities, with limited social supports; even during non-pandemic times this is a norm. First responders, medical/mental health/child welfare professionals are exposed to high levels of risk, stress, trauma regularly. Personal experiences with chronic and developmental trauma are also not uncommon for those in these professions, and as a result they can benefit from ongoing counseling/therapy.
Our emotions and thoughts are interconnected, and they impact our behaviors and outcomes – I’ve learned this profoundly during my years as a social worker in the mental health field. This is also the case as it relates to the brain, pain, and childbirth. Anxiety, fear, and negative thoughts can get you stuck during the perinatal phase. For many people, seeing the positive on the pregnancy test prompts feelings of ambivalence, even in planned pregnancies. Especially in the world we live in today. Living each day through pregnancy also can bring the many questions and worries about what to eat and what not to eat…which activities are okay, and which are big no-nos, and more anxieties, even after providers have given their recommendations. For those who have experienced past pregnancy or infant loss, or infertility, this pregnancy may bring up feelings of grief or great anxiety. People with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health issues also benefit from additional support before, during, and after pregnancy…even years after. The first few years as a new or repeat parent is filled with challenges, which have worsened for many during this pandemic. With caring counseling, coaching, and education, we will work together to help you find more peace, knowledge, empowerment, and have an emotionally healthier pre-pregnancy, prenatal, postpartum, and early parenthood period.
Born out of the long term impacts of the COVID pandemic on people who care for and service others (in particular -- moms), MY Wellness Before Anyone/Anything Else is Alex's latest mission so dear to her heart. While support spaces and self-care services & products are a dime-a-dozen, MY Wellness BAE seeks to revolutionize, de-stigmatize, and transform what it means to take care of oneself.