By Dr. Araceli Flores
In a recent survey, we spoke with more than 1,000 moms in the United States about what triggers their stress and anxiety. With multiple priorities and many people to care for, it’s not a surprise that a majority of mothers in our survey–88% to be exact–suffer from at least one stress-related health problem and 59% report having problems with anxiety. (more…)
May is National Mental Health Month and was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental well-being. We join the many organizations and individuals who are committed to raising awareness, fighting stigma, providing support, and advocating for access to care. (more…)
By Dr. Heather Hawthorne
Every phase of your life from your 20s to your 60s and beyond is different. You may be starting out your career in your 20s, thinking of a family in your 30s, and quite possibly retired in your 60s.
No matter what age you are, incorporating healthy habits in your day-to-day life can make a huge difference in the long-term. As we age, every decision we make builds upon one another. What habits you decide to start today will only create a better tomorrow. (more…)
By Dr. Judith Thorne
There are many opinions on work life balance, especially geared towards women and mothers. As a clinical psychologist, sometimes I struggle with these recommendations and concept of work life balance. Why? The concept of work life balance can start to feel like homework or more work when mothers are already juggling a full plate. On top of the demands and pressures a woman encounters as a mom, now we are asking her to balance everything on her own? The health of the mother is one of the most important links to the well-being of their children. As I’ve said to many of my patients: “If you go down, the whole ship goes down.”
A lot of the women I see have very successful careers that become a part of their identity before having children. Because they have done so well in their life they think: “What could be harder than what I’m doing now?” The struggle arises when many women want to be the perfect mother of the 1950s, and also the high achieving career woman of the 2000s. They set high expectations for themselves and try to figure out what they must do to “have it all.” They plan the perfect home birth, plan to make baby food from scratch, plan to go back to work immediately or plan to immediately quit their job to stay at home…the list goes on. When the reality does not meet expectations, they feel guilty, ashamed, or anxious.
The truth is: there is no secret formula. We need to reframe the conversation away from achieving work/life balance and encourage women to discuss and think about things like whether or not they are getting the support they need when they have a family. (more…)
Moms are busy. Between getting the kids to soccer practice, taking a spin class, or nailing an important client meeting, it’s not news that a sweeping majority (88%) suffer from at least one stress-related health problem and 59% have problems with anxiety. It’s clear moms don’t have time to focus on their own physical and mental health. But what, exactly, is causing this stress and anxiety, and ultimately blocking moms’ ability to live life well?
Topping the list? One in five moms attribute the cost of healthcare as major cause of anxiety.
In support of Mental Health Awareness Month and our commitment to helping patients live life well year-round, Doctor On Demand’s report “Moms, Money, and Mental Health” sheds light on the key health issues affecting moms and the barriers preventing them from seeking help.
To view the full survey report, click on the button below.
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