Anxiety is no freaking picnic, and when we add isolation to that, it can hit our mental health pretty hard. With all the cancellations and closings, isolation and anxiety is a particular health concern.

Anxiety itself can wreak havoc on our immune system. It compromises it drastically. Since I received my diagnosis postpartum, my immune system has been incredibly weakened.

This is a concern because anxiety can also manifest physically. I was told by my GI provider that somewhere around 90% of our serotonin receptors are located in the gut. There is a distinct link between anxiety and GI issues.

Chronic stress can also contribute to something called a psychogenic fever. I’ve experienced this. For the last several months, I have experienced a low-grade fever that cannot be linked to any physical causes. We’ve done all the bloodwork, checked my thyroid, etc.

We are social creatures.

As human beings, we need social interaction to thrive. When we start quarantining ourselves, isolation can increase levels of anxiety. Loneliness, in particular, is responsible for creating a plethora of mental health issues.

We need to be safe. We need to keep our families safe, but we also need to be willing to look at what that is doing to our mental state. Please…don’t just tough it out if you start feeling down during this time. Reach out to someone. Family, friends, or find your own tribe.

Social Media can be an amazing connection tool when used correctly during isolating times. Try not to compare yourself to what everyone else is doing. Do what is best for your family, and try to find like-minded people doing the same. I’ve personally made so many connections with amazing women by joining different mom groups on social media.

This is not the time for panic. In all the crazy, we have to stay mindful of our own mental health. We can’t sacrifice that. We just can’t. Do whatever you need to do to help you get through this time. Journal, create, build forts in your living room. Do whatever it takes to get the most out of this time.

If you are still struggling, I am offering postpartum anxiety coaching. Visit this link to learn more, and you can even schedule a free call with me. I’m here to help with whatever you are going through, because, honestly, I’m going through it too.

Take care, mamas. Sending all the love!