One in five women in California will experience distressing emotions, anxiety or depression during their pregnancy or up to a year after giving birth. This time can be difficult for the entire family. Early identification and treatment are vital to the health of not only the mother, but also her infant, partner and family. The pandemic has only increased new parents’ need for support. 

Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health, if not more so during stressful times. Stephanie Parmely, PHD, a behavioral medicine specialist with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group, shares why it’s crucial to maintain mental health and seek to be emotionally resilient.

We’re sharing informative and helpful insight on how to identify and cope with symptoms of depression that may stem from loneliness and isolation.

Communities, families and individuals worldwide have been affected by the social restrictions set in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Quarantine has also taken a mental toll as many are struggling to cope with loneliness and isolation. Manav Khullar, MD, a psychiatrist with Mercy Medical Group in Sacramento, says it is normal to feel sad or stressed right now because of the many changes we are experiencing in our lives.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital resources have provided avenues of connection and learning for children. School, appointments, and friendships now take place in a virtual world. It's no different in health care where virtual visits have also enabled physicians to continue to see patients. 

Karl Zeff, MD, a psychiatrist with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group’s behavioral health program, was delighted to find that virtual visits have enhanced behavioral health visits with his patients.