Resources for New Parents

Parenthood is a significant change to daily life – one that can significantly affect your emotional health.   It is natural to experience changes in feelings and mood during pregnancy and after giving birth. However, if unpleasant feelings do not go away after a couple of weeks - or if they get worse - they could be signs of a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD). PMADs affect as many as 30 percent of all new mothers.

Amid the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic, life right now probably feels anything but normal. While we’re practicing social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it’s important to know help is still available to you.

If you’re looking for a mental health provider, refer to the following resources from Postpartum Support International to find the support and resources you need:

• Postpartum Support International HelpLine: The HelpLine is open from moms, dads and families or anyone who may be looking for resources to help a loved one.
  • Call 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD), English and Español
  • Text a Message: 503-894-9453 (English) or 971-420-0294 ( Español)
• H.E.A.R.T. for Moms: Join this local support group on Facebook or contact at 919-617-7478.
• The Ugly Side of Motherhood: Supported through the Wayne Pregnancy Center, this group is open to all mothers in the area. For more information, call 919-223-3045 or email kristinb@waynepregnancycenter.com
• PSI Free Online Support Groups, available for:
  • Perinatal (Pregnancy & Postpartum) Mood Support Group
  • Pregnancy Mood Support Group
  • NICU Parents
  • Military Moms
  • Infant and Pregnancy Loss

• Chat with an Expert: Every week! During these sessions, you can connect with other moms and dads, and talk with a PSI expert about resources, symptoms, options and general information about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders from the privacy of your own phone.
  • Moms – Every Wednesday
  • Dads – First Monday of the Month
• Provider Directory: Search the Provider Directory to find a provider in your area that offers teletherapy.
• Dads:
  • Dads Chat with an Expert – Available the first Monday of the month.
  • Join Facebook Live Chat with former PSI Board member, Danny Singley, Thursdays in April at 2-2:30 PST. (Flyer – New Dads FB Live – April 2020)
• PSI Facebook Group: Join the moderated PSI Closed Facebook group to find support and encouragement from other parents, who may be going through similar experiences.
• Smart Patients Forum: Moderated online peer support in an anonymous forum.