Epi-52: Maternal Mental Health Is Family Health
Notes and Additional Resources
Maternal health isn’t just about pregnancy checkups or delivery outcomes. It encompasses the parents' emotional and psychological well-being, which affects the entire family.

Maternal Mental Health Matters
Stat:

• 1 in 5 U.S. women experience a maternal mental health disorder during pregnancy or up to a year after birth. Policy Resource:
• Center for Maternal Mental Health
  These conditions are common, real, and often underdiagnosed.

Screening Gaps Create Risk
Stat:

• About 1 in 5 pregnant women aren’t screened for depression during prenatal care, and about 1 in 8 aren’t screened after birth. 
• Routine screening misses opportunities for early support.

Resource: 
CDC

Maternal Suicide: A Maternal Health Outcome
Stat:

• Up to 20% of postpartum maternal deaths are due to suicide — a leading cause among preventable pregnancy-associated deaths.  

Resource:
Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health

The Impact on Children: When Maternal Depression Goes Undetected
Persistent maternal depressive symptoms do not always end after the early postpartum weeks.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, depressive symptoms can continue well into the first year after birth—and in many cases, they go undetected or untreated.
When this happens, the effects extend beyond the mother.

Infants and young children are deeply attuned to their caregiver’s emotional availability. When a mother is struggling silently, children may experience changes they cannot name or understand—less eye contact, reduced responsiveness, emotional withdrawal, or unpredictable moods. These early disruptions can shape how a child learns to regulate emotions, form secure attachments, and interpret the world around them.

As children grow, the impact often evolves.
Some may develop anxiety or depressive symptoms of their own.
Others struggle with attention, behavior, or social connection.
Many internalize a sense of responsibility—believing, quietly and incorrectly, that they are the cause of their parent’s distress.

When maternal mental health challenges escalate without adequate support, the consequences can become even more profound. In cases where depression contributes to maternal suicide, children are left navigating grief layered with confusion, stigma, and unanswered questions. Too often, their loss is minimized or avoided altogether—leaving them without language, validation, or long-term support.
Resource:
CDC

At FOZA, we believe children should not have to grow up carrying silent grief.
Acknowledging the ongoing nature of maternal mental health challenges—and their impact on children—is a critical step toward prevention, compassion, and healing. True maternal health awareness must include not only early screening, but sustained support for families and intentional care for the children who are affected when that support is missing.
Because when mothers struggle in silence, children feel it.

When children are supported, cycles of harm can be interrupted.

​FOZA Podcast Epi-50 - The Giving Season:  Finding Balance in Gratitude
Aligning with the podcast, here is a list of practical practices to help you stay on track with practicing gratitude, as well as facing life’s real challenges.
 
Sincere Gratitude Statements -vs- Toxic Positivity Statements
Here are some clear and helpful choices between sincere gratitude statements and toxic positivity statements. Toxic positivity statements can often invalidate the real emotions of a loved one.
🌿 Sincere Gratitude Statements (Supportive & Grounded)

1. “I’m grateful for your presence, even on the hard days.”
2. “Thank you for showing up, in whatever way you can today.”
3. “I appreciate what my body has carried me through, even when it feels heavy.”
4. “I’m thankful for small wins — they mean just as much on difficult days.”
5. “I’m grateful for the people in my life who let me be honest about how I’m really feeling.”
6. “I don’t feel okay today, but I’m thankful I have the space to say that out loud.”

 
🚫Toxic Positivity Statements (Dismissive or Minimizing)

1. “You should just focus on the good — everything happens for a reason!”
2. “It could be worse — you’re lucky compared to some people.”
3. “Stop worrying so much, you just need to stay positive!”
4. “If you're grateful enough, you won't feel depressed.”
5. “Don’t talk about the hard stuff — just be thankful and move on.”
6. “Everything will be fine — just smile and keep going.”

_______________________________________
The Science of Gratitude
Here are some gratitude practices that can reduce cortisol, improve sleep, and lift mood (Harvard Health, NIH studies).

• Simple daily practices:
  • Create a 3-item gratitude list before bed.
  • Say “thank you” out loud for small wins.
  • Reflect with family or partners about one positive moment each day.

​4. Permit Yourself to Feel
Understand that gratitude and grief can coexist. You don’t have to hide your feeling, and at the same time you don’t have to be consumed by negative thoughts. If this is a struggle, then it’s time to seek help.
 “Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring the storm; it means noticing the rainbows between the clouds.”

• Practice journaling, prayer, or quiet time — not to “fix” feelings but to listen to them and be able to share with your therapist or medical team.

________________________________________
5. Put Practical Gratitude in Action

• Examples:
  • Write thank-you cards to those who supported you. In the past
  • Cook a meal for someone who may need a lift up.
  • Donate to a cause (like FOZA’s scholarship) or your favorite charity.
  • Create a “gratitude jar” as a family ritual.

___________________________________________
 
6. Community and Connection

• Remember, connection is a powerful form of gratitude. Find ways to connect in safe and productive ways.
• Share stories of small acts of kindness within the FOZA community or within the networks that you trust.
• Use your connections to learn about upcoming events or volunteer opportunities and share what you know with others.

Send us your thoughts, ideas, comments and stories:
[email protected]

​Quiet Strength: Men, Emotions, and Maternal Mental Health
When we talk about maternal mental health, it’s easy to picture only moms at the center of the conversation. But fathers, partners, and male role models carry their own emotional weight — often in silence. And that silence matters. It affects them, their families, and the mothers they’re trying so hard to support.

In Podcast Episode 49 of the FOZA Podcast, Quiet Strength: Men, Emotions, and MMH, we take a closer look at the struggles men face, why their mental health is vital to maternal wellness, and what we can do to create a culture where they feel safe to speak up.
Why Men’s Mental Health Matters for Moms

• Impact on mothers: Studies show that when fathers experience depression or anxiety, the risk of postpartum depression in mothers rises significantly (by nearly 47%).
• Silent expectations: Men are often told to “be strong” or “man up,” which makes it harder for them to express their fears or ask for help.
• Ripple effect: A father’s mental wellness influences how supported and secure a new mother feels — which in turn affects bonding, recovery, and family stability.

​Access to quality maternal mental health services is about more than just availability—it’s about planning, affordability, understanding, compassion, and confidence that when the proper support systems are put into place, families thrive, and communities grow stronger.

As promised in our FOZA Podcast Ep1 48 - Here is a downloadable outline to build a plan for better access. It's not an overnight call-to-action; however, it has been reported that 1 in 5 mothers experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder or episode. Last year, more than 3 million births in the US meant more than 150K mothers faced challenges postpartum, but regrettably, more than half didn’t receive the care they needed.

Creating and following a plan means decreasing the devastating numbers of loss and increasing the reality of moms getting the services they need and deserve. Download the outline today. Use it for yourself or share it with someone who can use it. 

Did you know that the FOZA Educational Scholarship is open now — but only until December 31, 2025?
If you know a student who has lost their mother due to postpartum depression-related suicide and is preparing to enter college or trade school, this scholarship was created for them.

​FOZA’s mission is to support the children left behind while raising awareness about maternal mental wellness.
Learn more, review eligibility, and apply today at FOZAInc.org/scholarships.
Together, we can honor their mothers’ memories and help build brighter futures.

As promised...here are links to the resources mentioned in our podcast, Epi-47 
The Impact of Maternal Mental Health on Family Dynamics
​

Postpartum Depression and Bonding Difficulties: Different but Interrelated Problems
 The mother’s feelings about her baby, described as bonding, typically grow and intensify after the baby’s birth and become the foundation of the mother’s relationship with her child.​

 Men and Postnatal Mental Illness
 Over the past few years, there has been an increase in awareness about maternal mental illnesses, including postnatal depression, postpartum psychosis, maternal obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following birth trauma.​

Preparing Your Child for a New Sibling
How to help kids feel positive about the new baby and avoid problem behaviors

New Parents Setting New Baby Boundaries
​Learning how to be a new parent means setting family boundaries that might disappoint loved ones.

Although most of us—men and women alike—are socialized to think of men as providers of support during the perinatal period and early parenthood, a wealth of research shows that 10% of new dads experience paternal postpartum depression (50% when mom is depressed) and need support of their own.
​However, the stigma against experiencing difficulties in early parenthood is even higher for men than for women. Society views men as stoic, self-sacrificing, and above all, strong. When men feel none of those things as new fathers, they often don’t want to admit it or seek help.
For this reason, Postpartum Support International is an enthusiastic supporter of International Fathers' Mental Health Day as a means to take a whole-family, father-inclusive approach by shedding light on the best practices and related resources for dads, their partners, and those who support them.  Read More

Postpartum Support International offers free services and resources for dads, including:

• The toll-free HelpLine provides support, resources, and basic information. HelpLine calls and texts are returned every day of the week by trained and caring volunteers.
• The Dads Support Group is a free, virtual, peer support group where dads can connect with other dads who have newborns up to toddlers. In addition to sharing experiences, dads will learn about helpful tools and resources and realize they are not alone.
• Specialized Coordinators are volunteers with personal experience with the challenges of living with a perinatal mental health condition while being a dad. These volunteers provide other fathers the opportunity to connect with someone who understands what it is like and share resources.
• The Peer Mentor Program pairs dads in need of support with a trained volunteer who has also experienced and fully recovered from a perinatal mental health disorder. This one-to-one connection offers invaluable insight, encouragement, and hope.
• A closed Facebook group for dads, where members can access great support and information from other dads.
• Chat with an Expert is a free, live phone session for dads on the first Tuesday of each month. The calls provide reliable information, support, and resources. Dads can find answers and support from an expert and other dads.

-----------------------------------------------------------
Can't find what you need?
Try FOZA Finder

(1) delegating tasks and responsibilities to people in your support system, 
(2) prioritizing a moment of self-care everyday, and 
(3) practicing deep breathing techniques when you are feeling overwhelmed or frustrated. ​

Welcome FOZA friends, family and fans to our extended version of the podcast! and as promised, FOZA Answers Your Postpartum Questions Beyond 555.

We’ve looked at the questions  submitted by YOU, our listeners—moms, birthing people, doulas, caregivers, and advocates—and these questions relate to our last podcast entitled questions  submitted by YOU, our listeners—moms, birthing people, doulas, caregivers, and advocates—and these questions relate to our last podcast entitled “Beyond the 555”. 
For those of you who may have missed that podcast, we discussed some of the recent changes in federal and state policies regarding benefits, employment, insurance, resources and so much more that touches birthing people and postpartum mental wellness.

We received many comments and questions related to our beyond 555 podcast, so we segmented the most frequently asked questions into topics, and selected the top questions for our response. We are also happy to take a deep dive with an individual Mom, just reach out to us at FOZAInc.org/contact. 

The Most Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How Do I Differentiate Baby Blues -vs- Postpartum Depression?
2. How Do I Start Building a Support System or Network?
3. How Do I Find Safe, Professional, Support and Resources?
4. How Do I Overcome Embarrassment and Self-consciousness? (Next FOZA Podcast Episode)
---------------------------------------------------------------
1. How can I differentiate between “normal” postpartum symptoms and signs of postpartum depression?

As you know we at FOZA are not medical professionals however we do rely on many professionals to help us direct moms to the best resource to fit their needs and we do research topics like Differentiating between "normal" postpartum symptoms and signs of postpartum depression (PPD). It) can be challenging, as many of the symptoms overlap. That makes it even moreHowever, it's important for new moms to understand the key differences so they can seek appropriate help when needed. So here’s some comparison between the two:Here's how a new mom can differentiate between the two:

Baby Blues can be Normal Postpartum Symptoms:
These are common after childbirth and usually improve within a few weeks.

1. What it is: A temporary period of mood swings, irritability, and tearfulness
2. Duration: Typically occurs within the first few days to weeks after birth.
3. Symptoms: Feeling overwhelmed, crying spells, irritability, trouble sleeping, mild anxiety, and general fatigue.
4. Cause: Hormonal changes, physical recovery, and adjusting to motherhood.
5. Duration: These feelings usually subside within two weeks.

You may not experience any negative feeling but if you do... share them with your medical team and take notes on what you are feeling and when…baby blues (if you should experience it at all should blow over within the month…however if the mom is uncertain about finances, insurance and other basics for a stable home life things baby blues could turn into something quite quite different .)

Signs of Postpartum Depression (PPD):
PPD is a more serious, long-lasting condition that requires treatment. While the symptoms of PPD may overlap with those of baby blues and normal postpartum changes, they are more severe and may persist for longer. 

1. Intense, Persistent Sadness:
   • What it is: A deep feeling of sadness that doesn’t go away.
   • Symptoms: Feeling empty, hopeless, or overwhelmed most of the time.
   • Duration: Lasts longer than two weeks and doesn’t improve.
2. Loss of Interest in Activities:
   • What it is: A lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, including caring for the baby or spending time with family.
   • Symptoms: Withdrawal from family, friends, or normal daily activities.
3. Severe Fatigue or Lack of Energy:
   • What it is: Feeling constantly exhausted or unable to complete basic tasks.
   • Symptoms: Extreme fatigue despite adequate rest, feeling physically drained, unable to get out of bed, or feeling paralyzed by the thought of daily responsibilities.
4. Excessive Worry or Anxiety:
   • What it is: An overwhelming, irrational worry about the baby’s health or safety.
   • Symptoms: Constantly fearing something bad will happen to the baby, persistent anxiety about being a good parent, or feeling “trapped” by the responsibilities.
5. Difficulty Bonding with the Baby:
   • What it is: A lack of emotional connection or attachment to the baby.
   • Symptoms: Feeling indifferent or disconnected from the baby, not feeling “in love” with the baby, or feeling resentment or anger towards the baby.
6. Changes in Sleep and Appetite:
   • What it is: Significant changes in sleeping or eating habits that aren’t related to the baby’s feeding schedule.
   • Symptoms: Either insomnia (inability to sleep) or sleeping excessively; loss of appetite or overeating.
7. Thoughts of Harming Yourself or the Baby:
   • What it is: Intrusive thoughts about self-harm or harming the baby.
   • Symptoms: Persistent thoughts of death, suicide, or harming the baby. (This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention).
8. Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness:
   • What it is: Excessive guilt about not being a “perfect” mother.
   • Symptoms: A constant feeling of being a failure or not being able to meet expectations, even though the thoughts aren’t rational.

A mom may not experience all of these, however any of them especially if lasting for a prolonged period should be discussed with your medical team and some of them like thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby should be brought to your doctor immediately. 
Key Differences between baby blues and PPD:

• Duration: Baby blues typically subside within 2 weeks, while PPD lasts much longer (weeks or even months).
• Intensity: Baby blues are milder and more transient, while PPD symptoms are severe, persistent, and interfere with daily life.
• Functional Impairment: PPD can make it difficult for a mother to care for herself or her baby, while baby blues typically don’t interfere with the ability to function.
• Severity of Thoughts: Thoughts of harm to oneself or the baby are a major red flag for PPD and require immediate medical attention.
• Call 988
• Call the National Maternal Mental Health Helpline 833-943-5746

What to Do:

• Reach out for help: If a mother is unsure or feels like the sadness, anxiety, or fatigue is going beyond what is typical for the postpartum period, it’s important to reach out to a healthcare provider, therapist, or counselor.
• Talk to a support system: Family members, close friends, or other new parents can provide encouragement and help in identifying when it’s time to seek professional assistance.
• Seek professional help: Therapists, support groups, and healthcare professionals can help with managing and treating PPD. Medications, therapy, or a combination of both are often used.

Summary
If a new mom feels overwhelmed by sadness, anxiety, or difficulty bonding with the baby that doesn’t seem to improve, it’s important to get professional help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in recovery.

2. How do I start building a support system if I don’t have family or close friends nearby?

Building a support network when you have a new baby and limited resources can be challenging for several reasons. First I want to acknowledge some of the challenges and then I'll make some suggestions on how to overcome them:

1. Financial Constraints: Limited financial resources often make it difficult for new parents to hire help, attend support groups, or access paid resources like therapy or professional caregiving. This can increase stress, as parents may feel overwhelmed trying to manage everything on their own.
2. Geographical Isolation: If the new parent lives far from family or friends, or in a community with limited access to services, it can be challenging to build a supportive network.  Lack of proximity to trusted people makes it harder to get the physical or emotional help that is needed.
3. Lack of Time: New parents are often exhausted and overwhelmed, leaving them with little time to seek out or maintain support networks. This can also make it hard to engage in social activities or even reach out for help.
4. Stigma and Shame: There may be a stigma associated with asking for help, especially regarding mental health issues like postpartum depression. New parents may feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit that they need support, which prevents them from reaching out.
5. Parents canMisinformation or Limited Knowledge: New parents may not know where to find the right resources or what types of support are available. They might also be overwhelmed by conflicting advice from well-meaning friends, family, and the internet, making it hard to identify trustworthy sources of help.
6. Emotional Strain: The emotional challenges of early parenthood, including dealing with the pressures of bonding, sleep deprivation, and adjusting to a new routine, can make it difficult for new parents to maintain relationships. This emotional strain can also prevent them from reaching out for support, as they may feel like they need to be strong for others.
7. Physical and Mental Health Issues: Postpartum recovery, both physical and mental, can leave a new parent physically drained and mentally drained.overwhelmed. This can hinder their ability to build or nurture a support network.
8. SomeSupport Network Gaps: Many communities may not have the right kinds of support services or groups for new parents. Or thereThere may be a lack of specialized services for specific needs, such as mental health support for postpartum depression, which can leave parents feeling isolated.
9. Social Media vs. Real-Life Connections: While online communities can offer some support, they may not provide the hands-on, real-life connection that parents need. Virtual support can sometimes feel impersonal, and it can be hard to establish meaningful, reliable connections. Here’s where local organizations can bring strength. This includes churches, community centers, neighborhood gatherings, and similar opportunities.

Suggestions for Overcoming These Challenges:

• Seek out local resources: Even if funds are limited, local libraries, churches, or community centers may offer free resources, parenting classes, or support groups.
• Create a virtual support system: Use social media or online communities, especially for those who are geographically isolated, to connect with others who are in similar situations.
• Focus on small, meaningful connections: If there’s a lack of time or energy, even small, short interactions with others—whether a quick call with a friend or a family member—can make a big difference in boosting mental health.
• Share openly and without shame: Normalize asking for help and sharing struggles to reduce the stigma around it. Reach out to local organizations, nonprofits, or even government programs designed to support families in need.
• Barter services or find low-cost solutions: Offer to trade services with others—like watching their child while they rest in exchange for the same favor—if you can’t afford paid help.

3. How Do I Find Safe, Professional, Support and Resources?

What resources should I look for when I’m searching for postpartum support groups on line…how do I find a safe place? 
When searching for postpartum support groups online, it's important to find safe and trustworthy spaces where you can connect with others who understand your experience. Here are key resources and steps you can take to find a safe, supportive, and secure environment:
1. Look for Trusted Health and Wellness Websites

• Many healthcare providers and wellness organizations host online support groups for new parents, including postpartum support. Websites like PostPartum Support International, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, or The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) often list resources or offer links to reputable support groups.
• Tip: Check if the website has a section specifically for postpartum or maternal mental health, which will give you more focused and targeted support.

2. Check Community Platforms for Local and National Groups

• Social media platforms such as Facebook, Reddit, and Meetup have groups dedicated to maternal mental health, postpartum depression (PPD), and general postpartum support.
  • On Facebook, search for closed groups that focus on maternal mental health or PPD. Closed groups ensure privacy, meaning only members can see posts.
  • Reddit has a variety of subreddits, like r/Postpartum, that offer peer support and resources, but remember that it is a public platform, so exercise caution when sharing personal details.
  • Meetup can help you find local or virtual meetups for moms facing similar challenges. These groups are often hosted by individuals or organizations but may vary in quality.
• Tip: Always look for groups with strict moderation and rules about privacy and respect. Seek out groups that are active, well-reviewed, and frequently monitored by mental health professionals or certified support facilitators.

3. Search for Online Counseling or Therapy Services

• Some online therapy platforms offer group sessions or support groups for new parents, including postpartum-focused groups. Services like BetterHelp, Talkspace, or TherapyChat can connect you to therapists who may run postpartum support groups, either individually or as part of a group package.
• Tip: Ask therapists if they specialize in maternal mental health and check if the platform offers group therapy specifically for postpartum issues.

4. Check Local Hospitals and Clinics

• Many hospitals or community clinics offer online support groups for new parents, especially those dealing with postpartum depression or anxiety. These groups may be facilitated by licensed mental health professionals and are often connected to resources for new mothers.
• Tip: Contact your local healthcare providers to ask about virtual postpartum support groups or peer support initiatives.

5. Search for Nonprofits and Community Groups

• Numerous nonprofit organizations focus on maternal mental health and may offer virtual support groups. Look for nonprofits that provide resources and peer support for postpartum depression, mental health, and maternal well-being.
• Tip: Look for organizations with professional endorsements or collaborations with mental health specialists to ensure that the group is credible and properly structured.

6. Look for a Safe Space: Red Flags to Watch For

• Moderation: The group should have clear rules for maintaining respectful and supportive communication. Groups should not tolerate harmful behavior, such as judgment or shaming.
• Privacy: Ensure the platform offers privacy protections (e.g., closed groups or encrypted services) so that your information and posts are not shared outside the group.
• Supportive Leadership: Look for groups led by trained professionals or experienced moderators who can help guide discussions, manage sensitive topics, and provide reliable resources.
• Peer Support: While it's great to share experiences, a good group should have a mix of both peer support and professional guidance. Avoid groups that are purely led by non-professionals without any mental health expertise.

7. Additional Resources

• Local Parent Resource Centers: Many communities offer virtual parenting classes or online support groups. These centers can be great places to ask for specific recommendations for virtual postpartum groups.
• Apps for Moms: Apps like Peanut or BabyConnect can also connect mothers, and some include virtual support circles or connect you to professional groups.

8. Key Questions to Ask When Evaluating a Group

• How are members' privacy and confidentiality protected?
• Who moderates the group? Are they trained in maternal mental health or counseling?
• How is the group structured? Is there a focus on support, or is it more about sharing experiences?
• Are there any resources provided by the group, such as tips on coping, expert advice, or local services?

In Summary
When looking for an online postpartum support group, prioritize privacy, professional leadership, and safety. Take time to read reviews, ask for recommendations, and ensure the group aligns with your mental health needs. The right support can make a significant difference in your postpartum journey.

In Episode 44 We covered a lot of quesions, but unfortunately, we ran out of time...so in the next podcast we will go deeply into a very important question that came ot us: 

How Do I Overcome Embarrassment or Self-consciousness? 

We know just how challenging it can be to overcome these feelings. But don't worry, we're going to dive deep into this very topic in our next episode. I’ll be sharing practical advice and strategies to help you let go of that self-doubt, embrace self-compassion, and move past the fear of judgment. You won’t want to miss it.
Please continue to share your feed back and tune-in for the next episode of the FOZA Podcast—for maternal mental wellness

​Take Care of Yourself and Be kind to Yourself.

Resources to support the postpartum period,  job uncertainty, Health insurance concerns, and maternal mental well-being. Here we go:

• Building A Strong Support Network:
  • Connect with Other Moms: We encourage new mothers to join safe and nonjudgemental local mom groups, online forums, or support groups to share experiences and learn from each other. Before joining, check the groups guidelines (all good groups have them) and that will give you an idea of how serious the admins are about your safety and comfort.
  • Family and Friends: Keep family and friends close and well-informed about the challenges of postpartum periods. Share the FOZA Podcast and other resources that offer practical and affordable help for moms with tasks like cooking, cleaning, or childcare. 

Meeting Mom’s Needs:

• Sharing Resources and Educational Materials: Help your friends and family understand what new mothers might be going through. Help them build empathy and reduce stigma by making them aware of common mental health challenges.
• Organizing a Meal Train: Set up a meal train for the new mother. This allows friends and family to provide home-cooked meals, easing the burden of daily cooking during the postpartum period.
• Helping with Errands: Offer to run errands such as grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, or handling other tasks that may feel overwhelming for a new mom who is already stretched thin.
• Providing Childcare/Petcare Assistance: Offer to babysit. Take the older children or pets for a few hours to give the new mom some much-needed rest or personal time. It allows her to recharge and reduces stress.
• Sending Her Encouraging Texts or Notes : Sometimes, a simple text or a thoughtful note can mean a lot. Sending a quick "How are you today?" or “I’m thinking of you” can provide emotional support, especially when new moms may feel isolated. And guess what? If you are so inclined …a handwritten note is even more appreciated.
• Offering Help with Housekeeping or Gifting a Cleaning Service: Offer to help with light house cleaning or organizing tasks that may feel too overwhelming for a new mom. Helping with these chores can allow her to focus on bonding with the baby and healing. If you have or know of a reliable cleaning service, consider making a gift of their services to the mom.
• Being Flexible with Plans: Understand that the new mom's schedule may be unpredictable. Offer flexibility by being patient when making plans and allowing her to take breaks when needed. Avoid putting pressure on her to "bounce back" quickly.
• Respecting Boundaries: Be mindful of the mother’s need for space. Sometimes, offering a visit and allowing her to choose the timing can show respect for her emotional and physical boundaries. Respect her decisions and her newly forming “mother’s intuition”. If she concerned, but you as an “old hand” don’t see a need for worry…express your experience without making her feel inept.   
• Encouraging Time for Self-Care: Help the mother schedule moments for herself. Encourage her to take small breaks for self-care, such as a short walk, a bath, or just some quiet time alone to recharge. Don’t be pushy, but do try to get her to take advantage of the opportunity to receive help.

How’s the Partner Communication?: Encourage open communication between partners regarding roles, responsibilities, and expectations. Be specific, grateful and graceful…not everyone does things the way you might do it.

• Clear Role Definition

• Discuss and define each partner's roles and responsibilities, ensuring there’s clarity on who is responsible for what, especially when it comes to household tasks, childcare, and emotional support.
  • Set Realistic Expectations
• Be open about what each partner expects and what is realistically possible given the circumstances (e.g., lack of sleep, postpartum recovery, work schedules).
  • Check-in Regularly
• Have regular check-ins to discuss how each partner is feeling, what is working, and what might need adjustment. This can be a short weekly conversation to keep everything on track.
  • Create a Shared Calendar or Task List
• Use tools like shared calendars or apps to keep track of important dates (e.g., doctor’s appointments) and responsibilities (e.g., feeding, cleaning, or work shifts). This can help reduce confusion and prevent tasks from slipping through the cracks.
  • Recognize and Address Burnout
• Be mindful of each other’s physical and emotional well-being. If one partner is feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to acknowledge it and offer help. Don't wait for exhaustion to force a conversation.
  • Be Flexible and Adaptable
• Understand that plans and roles may need to change, especially when a baby or other life events come into play. Stay flexible and open to adjusting roles as needed to meet new challenges.
  • Share Emotional Responsibilities
• It’s important that both partners feel they can express their emotions and that their feelings are valid. Ensure that there is room for both partners to talk about fears, stress, or any concerns related to parenting or personal feelings.
  • Support Each Other’s Needs
• Acknowledge that each partner may have different needs—some may need more physical support, while others may need emotional encouragement. Be willing to help each other in ways that feel fulfilling to both partners.
  • Avoid Assumptions
• Don’t assume that your partner knows what you need or how you’re feeling. Be clear and vocal about your needs and listen to what your partner is communicating as well.
  • Divide the Labor Fairly
• Be mindful of the emotional and physical workload. Ensure the division of tasks, such as childcare, cleaning, and work responsibilities, is fair and balanced to prevent one partner from feeling overwhelmed.

 

• Access to resources and services: Many new mothers may be aware of mental health support resources but hesitate to take advantage during the postpartum period. Friends and family can help by (while always respecting boundaries) do the research to help mom align safe resources. Avoid simply handing over a list which in itself can be overwhelming. There are hundreds if not thousands of Maternal Mental health support organizations to help new mothers become aware of therapists, counselors, or support groups specializing in postpartum mental health. Check out
• Tele-Therapy: Promote telehealth options for mental health services, which can increase accessibility for mothers with limited transportation or logistical challenges. 
• Lactation Consultants: Connect mothers with lactation consultants to address breastfeeding concerns and challenges. 
• Postpartum Doulas: Recommend postpartum doulas for physical and emotional support during the postpartum period. 

• Promote open communication and self-care:
  • Listen and validate: Create a safe space for new mothers to express their feelings and validate their emotions. 
  • Encourage self-care: Remind mothers to prioritize their well-being by getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in gentle exercise. 
  • Normalize asking for help: Emphasize that it's okay to ask for help and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. 
  • Address postpartum depression: Encourage new mothers to seek professional help if they are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression. 
• Organizations and resources:
  • Postpartum Support International (PSI): A valuable resource for finding support groups, peer mentors, and other resources. You can find their website at postpartum.net 
  • March of Dimes: Offers resources and support for parents throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. You can find their website at marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/postpartum 
  • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): Provides clinical guidance and resources on postpartum care. You can find their website at acog.org 
• Consider the 5-5-5 postpartum rule:

This rule suggests 15 days of rest for moms following childbirth – five days in bed, five days on the bed, and five days around the bed. 
 
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. 
 
 

​Epi-42 –About Teletherapy and Maternal Mental Wellness - Concerns and Uncertainties

Let’s look into just a few of the Concerns and Uncertainties that come across my desk about maternal mental health and Teletherapy:

1. The Lack of Personal Connection
2. Overcoming Technical Issues 
3. Privacy and Safety Concerns - a Two Way Path
4. Being  Heard AND Understood
5. The Importance of Consistency
6. Trusting the Effectiveness of Teletherapy
7. Finding Services to Fit Your Needs and Your Budget

All Around Helpful Resource in Every Aspect of Mternal Mental Wellness
Postpartum Support International (PSI) 
Use FOZA Finder

 Teletherapy Platforms that offer secure encrypted sessions:

• Talkspace
• BetterHelp
• GrowTherapy​

Use FOZA Finder

There can be many options for Teletehrapy Payment. Here are some platforms that mya offer flexibility:

• Open Path Collective
• TherapyRoute
• BetterHelp
• SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
• 7 Cups
• Support Groups Central
• Headspace
• MindShift
• Calm

​Use FOZA Finder

​It’s important to not give up seeking help…that’s why FOZA is dedicated to heling you find local resources. it’s important to keep the faith because there are options available to make mental health care more accessible.