(Leah Hogsten | Tribune file photo) “I don’t want young moms — new moms — to think this is the norm,” said Evie Figgat, who suffered from anxiety resulting in bouts of insomnia, rage and racing thoughts during her first pregnancy with her son. Before the birth of her daughter, Elinor, 5 months, Figgat was given Zoloft which eased her anxiety. Utah has a higher rate of maternal anxiety than maternal depression. The rate of maternal anxiety for some age groups doubled in recent years, and researchers aren't sure why.
George has been an editorial writer, columnist and blogger for The Tribune's Opinion Section since 2002 (with a four-year diversion to do the same things for The Buffalo News in Buffalo, N.Y.).