Mothers & Birthing Parents
Rest — Take naps and rest as much as you can during the day. If you are unable to fall asleep, you may find it helpful to put your feet up, relax, and breathe deeply.
Try meditation, music, or prayer-- It may be helpful to try new things to keep your routine interesting and enjoyable.
Make time to exercise daily -- Consult with your doctor to determine the most appropriate exercises for your needs.
Delegate and ask for help — Taking care of a baby is a huge job. Try to eliminate unnecessary tasks and get help from trusted family or friends. Historically, women have received a lot of help from their extended family and community to care for their families. If you are a single mother, take time to identify your support system. Who can you ask for help?
Eat right and stay hydrated — Consider having a healthy snack or drink every time you feed your baby. Many parents find it helpful to keep simple foods on hand like fresh fruit, hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, nuts, etc.
Make time to enjoy yourself and your baby — Spend time with positive and supportive people. Take time for things you enjoy doing, such as taking a walk with your baby. You may enjoy taking some time away from your baby while going to the movies or having a cup of tea with a friend. Allowing trusted friends and family to care for your baby while you take a break gives them a chance to bond, as well.
Even with the above tips and good daily routines, parents may still experience low moods or anxiety. For some, it may be hard to have the energy to do daily care or to focus when feeling this way. Depression and anxiety can make it difficult to enjoy your baby. Your doctor or midwife can help.
In addition to your doctor or mid-wife, many supportive resources exist to support parents during these challenging times. You are not alone. With help, you will be well.
Try meditation, music, or prayer-- It may be helpful to try new things to keep your routine interesting and enjoyable.
Make time to exercise daily -- Consult with your doctor to determine the most appropriate exercises for your needs.
Delegate and ask for help — Taking care of a baby is a huge job. Try to eliminate unnecessary tasks and get help from trusted family or friends. Historically, women have received a lot of help from their extended family and community to care for their families. If you are a single mother, take time to identify your support system. Who can you ask for help?
Eat right and stay hydrated — Consider having a healthy snack or drink every time you feed your baby. Many parents find it helpful to keep simple foods on hand like fresh fruit, hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, nuts, etc.
Make time to enjoy yourself and your baby — Spend time with positive and supportive people. Take time for things you enjoy doing, such as taking a walk with your baby. You may enjoy taking some time away from your baby while going to the movies or having a cup of tea with a friend. Allowing trusted friends and family to care for your baby while you take a break gives them a chance to bond, as well.
Even with the above tips and good daily routines, parents may still experience low moods or anxiety. For some, it may be hard to have the energy to do daily care or to focus when feeling this way. Depression and anxiety can make it difficult to enjoy your baby. Your doctor or midwife can help.
In addition to your doctor or mid-wife, many supportive resources exist to support parents during these challenging times. You are not alone. With help, you will be well.
Postpartum Support International (PSI)
PSI runs this trusted warmline, offering support both in English and Spanish.
Mothers and birthing parents have shared that they received understanding, compassionate, and skilled support from warmline volunteers as they navigate their way to wellness.
Warmline: (800) 944-4PPD (4773)
Chat with an Expert:
Free live weekly chats. For more information: https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/chat-with-an-expert/
For more immediate crisis support:
National Crisis Text Line:
Text “Home” to 741741 from anywhere in the United States. This text-line is for any time & any type of crisis.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline & Website
24/7 Hotline. Call for yourself or someone you care about. Free & Confidential.
Call 1-800-273-8255
www.Suicidepreventionlifeline.Org
References:
Postpartum Support International. (2020). Overview. Retrieved from https://www.postpartum.net/resources/overview/
PSI runs this trusted warmline, offering support both in English and Spanish.
Mothers and birthing parents have shared that they received understanding, compassionate, and skilled support from warmline volunteers as they navigate their way to wellness.
Warmline: (800) 944-4PPD (4773)
Chat with an Expert:
Free live weekly chats. For more information: https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/chat-with-an-expert/
For more immediate crisis support:
National Crisis Text Line:
Text “Home” to 741741 from anywhere in the United States. This text-line is for any time & any type of crisis.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline & Website
24/7 Hotline. Call for yourself or someone you care about. Free & Confidential.
Call 1-800-273-8255
www.Suicidepreventionlifeline.Org
References:
Postpartum Support International. (2020). Overview. Retrieved from https://www.postpartum.net/resources/overview/
For more information on support groups, warm-lines, and other resources, please see Resources.
*Individuals and organizations listed within this website are provided for informational purposes only. We hope that this website may help to decrease barriers for timely screening, treatment, and recovery. The Perinatal Mental Health Coalition of Santa Cruz County does not endorse or guarantee the quality of services or listed information of these individuals or organizations. Information is subject to change. Please call to confirm details.
In case of an emergency, please call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room. NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE: 988