​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. 

Doodling and Drawing - can provide a space for self-expression, relaxation, and a sense of personal fulfillment, allowing you to tap into your true identity beyond just being a parent. Staying in touch with your inner creativity can help to keep you balanced.

Show Your Doodle - https://www.facebook.com/groups/showyourdoodle  A community group on Facebook for those interested in therapeutic doodling. We checked out the guidelines and it looks like a safe place to begin enjoying the therapeutic benefits of doodling and simple sketches.  Please leave a comment if you have other places in mind and we’ll be sure to share. 
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Journaling - If doodling is not your thing, but you do love to write, we’ve always advocated for journaling. As a matter of fact, FOZA has always had a resource on our Website to support journaling and we do that because we know there is medical and scientific proof that journaling is beneficial and can help a mother express feelings that might be hard to verbalize, such as feelings of isolation, sadness, or guilt.    

The Gratitude App - While we highly recommend pen and paper, we recognize that people like to communicate in different mediums so we looked into apps and the The Gratitude App – looks like fun and it’s free, it has personal pin security, over 127K reviews, and a 4.9 rating.
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Collage Making - With Collage making you can go old school with magazines and such, but for moms who prefer not to use  scissors and glues. Some great resources:
Canva
Pintrest
Create AI content in Leonardo
​... and many, many more Just contact us for a more cusomtized list
(Be sure to follow the policy and guidlines for all content you use. 
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Nature Art (Leaf Prints, Flower Petals, Rocks) - Here's a wonderful, downloadable PDF "Nature Prompts".
Check out this is a FREE 16 page guide to aid your "Nature Journaling". 
 It’s not silly or trivial or find excitement in a unique rock, a beautiful flower, or a particularly intricate leaf!  it can be a rewarding contribution in creating a work of art.   
If you already take daily walks in your garden or nearby park, consider collecting materials like leaves or pebbles, and turning them into art projects at home, for a stress releasing, anxiety busting activity. 
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Painting with Watercolors - Painting has always been a winner in the arena of stress relief, but for some the feeling that a certain skill set is needed in order to be acceptable, believe me when I say nothing could be farther for the truth. Don't hesitate in finding your power of peace. Do a wild abstract and let us see it!
Here are some Free and benefical basic tutorials:

• YouTube Watercolor Tutorials – Free video tutorials to learn watercolor techniques at your own pace. 
• WetCanvas – A free community forum dedicated to artists where you can learn watercolor techniques and connect with others.
• Watercolor Exercises for Beginners – A collection of beginner exercises and free resources for watercolor painting techniques. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj1smvMCvBI

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I hope you've listened to the Podcast. If you did you know I mentioned a few more creative outlets, where I personally find peace and freedom from stress ...If you want to learn how I have used them over time, connect with me: [email protected]
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The Complete Conversation On Emotional Support

Importance: Emotional support from family, friends, and community members provides mothers with a sense of belonging, validation, and comfort during challenging times. And yes… I say challenging times because no matter where your journey in life has brought you form or where it’s taking you once you become a parent, one you become a mom you’ll face challenges you never expected Blessedly no all of them will be mountains however if you run into enough hills they can feel like mountains and just as tedious

The positive Impact on those who receive emotional support during the pregnancy period and beyond make it less likely that they will experience postpartum depression and anxiety. That means they may never reach the deeper stages and yet research has shown that many still do still suffer from feelings of isolation, stress, and the overwhelming responsibilities of motherhood.
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In this month with extra attention placed on this critical topic the airways are going to be filled with Practical Ways to Provide Emotional Support –That means Offering Practical Help and Daily Assistance Support
Friends, family, and community members can alleviate some of the challenges birthing people face by offering practical help. This could include preparing and delivering meals, helping with household chores, or taking care of older siblings. By managing these everyday tasks, new parents can focus on their recovery and bonding with their baby, this can reduce stress, fatigue and the possibility of depression.

All of that is as it should be but I’m going to keep this conversation focused on the real underlying reason for this podcast: What happens when spouses, family members, caregivers and even medical professionals  encounter resistance? What happens when the mother rejects offers of help.  And Why would she not accept assistance?
Way back in Episode 19, we delved into the topic “Why Moms Don’t Speak Up.”, and it’s worth it to reiterate some of the information such as:

• She may feel as if she is burdening others
• She may want to prove her independence
• She may feel embarrassed or ashamed
• She may have had past negative experiences
• She may even be unsure of exactly what help she needs or where to look and she want to avoid appearing to be ignorant about a topic we’ve been programmed to believe is “natural”
• She may feel she should know instinctively how to care for her baby and she feels “less-than” which can exacerbate her feelings of being overwhelm. 

What action can family members take to help build up her trust and confidence to accept the help that is being offered? In other words What can we do to encourage her to accept help?  We know each person is unique with their own birth journey however there are some proven actions that family, love, and even care givers can take to reduce the possibility of depression. Along with her medical team everyone in her circle can be helpful.  In the FOZA Blog you will see that I have a more extensive list which I may cover in future broadcasts, but for now just 3.

First - Consistently Build on a Relationship Based on Empathy and Respect
Action: Show steady care and understanding without judgment. Build a relationship where she feels safe and comfortable and knows that your support is genuine and respectful. Don’t overwhelm her with your personal experiences…even if she asks for them, try to solicit her ​feelings and show gentle guidance when she needs advice. Be ready to lend a hand but only as much as she needs. Try to strike a balance. Don’t make her feel incompetent, strive to help her feel like she’s got this! 

Second - Be Patient and Persistent but not pushy
Sometimes it takes multiple offers or a gradual approach for her to feel comfortable accepting help. It’s up to us to be patient. If you ae placed in the position of helping out a friend who’s a new parent and you yourself have never had little ones think about it like our friend, advocate, and Author Julia Jones, her book Newborn Mother: subtitled when a baby is born, so is a mother has taught us the yes there are many things in nature that occur between mother and child, but there are many things they each have to learn. So if “patience” is not in your nature, then find ways to support mom in ways where patience is not critical, such as meal preparation, cleaning running errands and looking for resources like an easy-going person to manage younger child in the household or sit and listen , ) so again, be persistent in offering help, but not pushy or intrusive. 

Third  - Make your offer sound like Low-Pressure Assistance...Make it EASY for her to say yes:
Consider each of the objections I mentioned earlier and think carefully about the response you may give to each:

1. If She Expresses Feeling Like a Burden:
   "It's okay to lean on me. I really want to be here, and I genuinely enjoy helping. I’m prepared to help in any way I can."
2. If She Expresses Losing Independence or Control:
   "I admire how strong and independent you are, and it's completely okay to accept help when you need it. Know what? Accepting help is just another sign of your strength."
3. Embarrassment or Shame:
   "Everyone has moments when they need a little extra support. Now you are supporting an entirely new human being, and you’re doing an amazing job! I’m here to help you in any way I can."
4. Past Negative Experiences:
   "If you’ve ever had past experiences that might make it hard to trust offers of help, I’m sorry that happened, but I promise you can count on me, now. Let’s take things one step at a time together."
5. Uncertainty About Needs:
   "It’s completely normal to feel unsure about what kind of help you need. Let’s talk through it together and find what works best for you. I’m here to help you figure it out."
6. Feeling "Less-Than":
   "There’s no manual or guide for parenting, and everyone has to learn as they go. It’s okay not to have all the answers right now. You’re doing a wonderful job, and I’m here to support you in any way you need." 

We’re not suggesting that you use these terms verbatim, however as a member of her support team these statements may allow you to respond in supportive ways while avoiding any judgment or pressure according to your unique circumstances.
And keep in mind…direct suggestions are always good too: You can make a suggestion like "Can I bring over dinner on Tuesday or have it delivered?" or "Would it be okay if I care for the baby or the kids while you rest for an hour or two?" Making your suggestion in this way can minimize the pressure on the offer and …it can make it easier for her to accept the offer.
I’ve put together a short, video that you can share as a reminder to the community of how awareness can make it easier for new parents to navigate in the early days and transition into the world of motherhood.

​Fourth - Respect Boundaries and Preferences
Action: If they decline help, respect their decision without pressuring them. Let them know that your offer stands and they can reach out when they feel ready. Respecting their boundaries builds trust and shows that you respect their decisions.
Fifth - Communicate the Importance of Self-Care
Action: Gently remind them that accepting help is a form of self-care and that taking care of themselves is crucial for their well-being and the well-being of their family. Reiterate that seeking and receiving support is not a sign of weakness. It is a positive step.
Remember encouraging trust and acceptance reduces the risk of maternal burnout, and allows mothers and birthing people to rest and focus on their mental health and bonding with their newborns.
Sixth - Social Support in Maternal Mental Wellness is Providing a Safe, Active, Listening Environment
A Safe Active Listening Environment is one where A mom or a birthing person feels comfortable expressing themselves openly and honestly without fear of judgment or negative consequences. It involves creating a supportive atmosphere that fosters effective communication and understanding.
A professional’s ear will most likely not be  available on a full time basis, nor is it needed. However we are talking about saving lives…and we don’t always know when, where, and what to say. What we do know is this, Friends, family and caregivers can offer a listening ear without judgment, providing a safe space for birthing people to express their feelings and concerns. Regular check-ins, patient, thoughtful conversations, with no condemnation and validating their experiences help reduce feelings of isolation and can be a significant source of comfort during challenging times.
It is recommended that even family members take the time to learn more about what to say and do to create a safe, active, listening experience.
Seventh- Professional Resources Support  - Encourage and Facilitate Connections
Now that Community members and loved ones can play a role in connecting birthing people with professional resources, such as therapists, support groups, or maternal mental health specialists. They can help research and recommend local services, assist in making appointments, or provide transportation if needed. Encouraging and supporting access to professional help can be crucial for addressing and managing postpartum mental health issues effectively. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is vital for mothers experiencing more severe mental health issues.
Eighth - Informational Support

• Importance: Providing accurate information and resources about maternal health, parenting, and available services is essential for mothers to make informed decisions. Don’t just Google stuff.  If she needs help in getting to the doctor or getting professional assistance find ways to facilitate that.
• Impact: Informational support empowers mothers with knowledge, reducing anxiety and uncertainty about their role and the challenges they face.

Ninth - Social and Faith Based Networks

• Importance: Building and maintaining strong social networks with other mothers, support groups, and online communities creates a sense of solidarity and shared experience.
• Impact: These networks offer a space for mothers to share their experiences, advice, and coping strategies, which can significantly enhance their mental health and reduce feelings of isolation.  Community-based support, including faith groups and cultural organizations, helps mothers maintain a connection to their cultural identity while navigating the challenges of motherhood.

Tenth - Professional Support

• Importance: Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is vital for mothers experiencing more severe mental health issues.
• Impact: Professional support provides specialized care and interventions, ensuring that mothers receive appropriate treatment for conditions like postpartum depression, anxiety, or PTSD.

Eleventh - Cultural and Community Support

• Importance: Support systems that respect and incorporate cultural values and traditions can enhance the effectiveness of emotional support, as mothers feel understood and supported within their cultural context.
• Impact: Community-based support, including faith groups and cultural organizations, helps mothers maintain a connection to their cultural identity while navigating the challenges of motherhood.

Role Emotional Support Provides Maternal Mental Health Issues

• Prevention: Strong emotional support can act as a protective factor against the development of mental health disorders in mothers by providing early intervention and continuous care.
• Recovery: For mothers already facing mental health challenges, emotional support plays a critical role in their recovery, offering encouragement, understanding, and tangible help.

In summary, emotional support is a multifaceted resource that profoundly influences maternal mental health, acting as both a preventive measure and a vital component of recovery. Investing in and fostering emotional support networks is essential for the well-being of mothers and their families.
Thanks for visiting this blog and listing to our podcast. Come again as we bring more topics related to the benefits of emotional support such as:

• Setting boundaries and showing respect
• Communicating the importance of selfcare
• Creating a safe active listening environment
• Encouraging and facilitating professional resources
• Providing informational support
• The benefits of social and faith-based networks
• The benefits of cultural and community support
• and The role emotional support provides in Maternal Mental Health issues

 
Thank you for your support!
Team FOZA

We are sharing information form Susan Aquayo, CEO and President of Kassy’s Kause; a 501c3 organization dedicated to spreading the awareness of perinatal depression that can be experienced during pregnancy. The birth of Kassy’s Kause stemmed from the sudden and tragic, death of Susan’s daughter, Kassandra A. Williams, who died by suicide …related to perinatal depression.

We invite you to visit the Kassy's Kause website and see the many resources avaiailbe in Zip Code  87102, as well as the virtual resources that can be accessed around the nation. FOZA has placed Kassy's Kause on our Resources Page

The Kause will be having some events coming up. If you are in the ara we encourage you to reach out and donate to this great organization.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our FOZA Amplifiers; 
As we reflect on our gratitude for having you serve as a FOZA Amplifier, I am filled with immense appreciation and admiration for each and every one of you.
Your commitment to our cause, your passion for raising awareness about postpartum depression and maternal mental health, and your efforts to share information about our organization have made a profound impact on our mission.
Whether you have helped spread the word about our initiatives, volunteered your time and expertise, made a donation, or offered your unwavering support and encouragement, please know that your contributions have not gone unnoticed.

Each individual plays a vital role in our efforts to bring about positive change and support families affected by maternal mental health challenges. Your compassion, enthusiasm, and dedication inspire us all to continue striving for a world where every mother and family receives the support and resources they need to thrive.

On behalf of the entire FOZA team, I want to express our sincerity for your invaluable contributions as FOZA Amplifiers. Thank you for your dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
With heartfelt thanks,

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Sincere Regards,
Paulette Smith, President
Friends of Zayne Adams (FOZA, Inc.)
​"Stop the stigma, the silence, the suicides and the suffering ​that can accompany postpartum depression"
Website
Email
Phone: 866-FOZA-INC
Schedule a chat for a time that's convenient for you!

 
Let's Connect, Share, and Support One Another!
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​Now that many regions in the US have transitioned to Daylight Savings Time, we wanted to start a conversation related to everyday life.  Every day brings its share of stress and that can be especially true for birthing people and new moms. With anxiety creeping into both our professional and personal lives stress can take its toll on our mind our body and even our spirit.
As the longer days wear on, fatigue can set in, accompanied by headaches as the day's stress takes over our well-being. Are we trapped in this cycle?
Often, our only recourse appears to be reaching for painkillers to ease the discomfort and if you’re pregnant that’s not a solution, some might reach for a chilled glass of wine, but that won’t work for a mom to be or a nursing mom. A soothing bath to unwind might be the answer. In our most recent podcast we talked extensively about Holistic Ways to Manage Stress,  in fact getting out into nature was one of the ways Dr. Bill Sears advised us to reduce stress, however there is another natural choice to remedy stress, and that’s by bringing some of nature inside    yes we found a great article listing some plants that can help transform the atmosphere indoors.
Now I can hear the wheels turning and some of you saying it’s not your thing and believe me I understand, after all even my plastic plants struggle to live…but I decided to do a deep dive and learn more about how indoor plants can reduce stress and anxiety …and I’m passing some of this information on to you.
If you are strictly podcast listeners, I invite you over to the YouTube channel for this one so that you can see the plants as I go along or visit the FOZA Blog where we’ll post the details on the best plants to ease stress and anxiety.
As a word of caution, here I’ll be talking about growing plants indoors to create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.  In no way am I suggesting that any plant be ingested or used in any anyway other than as a potted plant.  some of you may like me have allergies or pets and maybe even small children so take your time and speak with your doctor and do the research, For those of you interested in the transformation that certain plants can bring for a more peaceful atmosphere in your home, one that is more uplifting and serene Let’s dive in.
 
 
The Boston Fern  is a lush, feathery fern is a natural humidifier and can help increase indoor humidity levels, which can have a calming effect on stress and anxiety. You may already know a lot about this popular plant, but did you know that NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration, conducted a study on this plant in which it was found to be one of the best at air purification. There are others but this is one to keep at the top of your list. As an added bonus to the Boston Fern’s beautiful foliage, but it is reported to be nontoxic to both children and pets. Still do your research.
Here, I’ve also added a few tips for showing love to your BF and if you don’t have one already I hope you’ll think about adding this versatile and beneficial to enhance both the aesthetic appeal of your home and the overall well-being of your indoor spaces.
 
Next, let’s look at
The Spider Plant  Some of it attributes …Easy to care for and adaptable, the spider plant is known for its ability to remove indoor air pollutants, and contribute to a healthier indoor environment. It’s beautiful, it’s reported to be human and pet friendly, it doesn’t need a ton of light so it’s great for the bathroom and it’s an oxygen producer so the bedroom is a good place to sit one …it looks happy so it’s a natural mood booster and that means it’s a stress reducer.
Overall, the Spider Plant is a versatile and beneficial houseplant that can enhance indoor air quality, promote relaxation, and add natural beauty to any space.
 
Number 3 let’s take a look at the Aloe Vera plant. So many products come from this plant you probably have one already, but some of you may not know the aloe vera has more than just healing properties, it also helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing harmful chemicals and toxins.
Often mistaken as a part of the cactus family, aloe is not a cactus, but it’s very own genus and with 500 varieties is actually grown for pharmaceutical purposes. It’s been reported to live for more than 100 years, so keep it in bright indirect sunlight and enjoy!
Because aloe vera is a natural air purifier, it can help to reduce anxiety and stress by giving you fresh air to breathe.
 
Number 4 on the list is the Rubber Plant The rubber plant is a low-maintenance indoor plant that helps purify indoor air by removing toxins, such as formaldehyde, and can create a calming ambiance in any space. Safe for humans, but not for pets.
Known as the humidity hero, rubber tree plants help maintain a comforting balance in your home’s humidity level.  The NIH - national Institutes of Health has conducted studies that show there is an important relationship between humidity levels and mental wellness.
Give your rubber tree plant lots of indirect bright light and let it bring you better air and more oxygen.
 
Number 5 is my personal favorite Lavender. Of course you see it outdoors a plenty, but having it indoors brings benefits as well and its reputation as a natural stress reducer is well known. It emits a calming fragrance that can help bring anxiety in check and it’s delicate lacy flowers are beautiful in any décor.
If you are a romantic then you may know that the lavender plant symbolizes devotion and that makes it very popular for weddings and anniversaries, what I did not know but learned in my research is that there are hundreds of varieties of lavender.  according to the US Lavender growers association, Yep, that’s a thing …there are more than 450 varieties.  I’ve included some care tips with this podcast, but you’ll want to research on your own, or ask your local garden center for more information.
 
On to number 6 fun and fragrant peppermint.  You just know this plant is going o perk you up!
The mint aroma not only has calming properties but also uplifts your mood. The natural menthol  relieves tension and fills you with energy. Whether you are home or work, a small planter does not take up much space even on the desk, at in the bedroom, you will get a healthy and sound night’s sleep with less anxiety and nervousness.
For care, while you can keep your Peppermint plants small, they can grow to be quite tall up to 3 ft
So keep that in mind.
 
Number 7 is the African Violet has tons of benefits.
Starting with the ability to Live long and proper yes I am doing the Vulcan salute , but seriously the African Violet is perfect for a busy household.  It’s reported to be safe around humans and pets and
From my little chart you can see it has many of the best qualities listed to aid in the reduction of anxiety.
For care it needs very little to bring you happiness, oxygen, cleaner air and a mood boost. It’s easy to propagate and surround your self with beauty.
 
Last but not at all least number 8 is the Christmas Cactus,  Also reported safe to be around humans and pets, this is a beautiful plant to have in the house is you are looking for a low maintenance plan that is uplifting at first sight. It does not need much watering or attention and will even bloom in the winter months! There is an article on the birds and bloom website reporting one family has passed down the same Christmas cactus for more than 145 years. Now that’s what I’d call longevity.
So check out the Christmas Cactus and don’t let the cactus name mislead you into thinking it will only survive in desert conditions because it can thrive very well in cool temperatures. As well.
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I only placed 8 plants on my list but there are dozens of house plants that can help ease anxiety and stress during these longer days at work and play. Remember you are your own best advocate so before bringing in any plant do the research and speak with your local gardening center.
 There are many plants that will help calm you down and put you in a positive mood. Don't let stress and anxiety disrupt your mental well-being and harm your health.

Six Holistic Ways to Manage Postpartum Depression
1. Stick to priorities
2. Get out – enjoy nature
3. Get some therapy
4. Eat well (New - Positive Outcome Research Related to PPD)
5. Treat yourself with small acts of self-care
6. Meditation is soul-care
Read the full Article

Dr. Bill Sears: or Dr. Bill as his “little patients” call him, has been advising busy parents on how to raise healthier families for over 50 years. He received his medical training at Harvard Medical School’s Children’s Hospital in Boston and The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, the world’s largest children’s hospital, where he was associate ward chief of the newborn intensive care unit before serving as the chief of pediatrics at Toronto Western Hospital, a teaching hospital of the University of Toronto. He has served as a professor of pediatrics at the University of Toronto, University of South Carolina, University of Southern California School of Medicine, and University of California: Irvine. As a father of 8 children, he coached Little League sports for 20 years, and together with his wife Martha has written more than 40 best-selling books and countless articles on nutrition, parenting, and healthy aging. He serves as a health consultant for magazines, TV, radio and other media, and his AskDrSears.com website is one of the most popular health and parenting sites. Dr. Sears has appeared on over 100 television programs, including 20/20, Good Morning America, Oprah, Today, The View, and Dr. Phil, and was featured on the cover of TIME Magazine in May 2012. He is noted for his science-made-simple-and-fun approach to family health.
www.AskDrBill.com

Wife, Martha Sears, RN: Martha is the mother of Dr. Bill’s eight children, a registered nurse, a former childbirth educator, a La Leche League leader, and a lactation consultant. Martha is the co-author of 25 parenting books and is a popular lecturer and media guest drawing on her 18 years of breastfeeding experience with her eight children (including Stephen with Down Syndrome and Lauren, her adopted daughter). Martha speaks frequently at national parenting conferences and is noted for her advice on how to handle the most common problems facing today’s mothers with their changing lifestyles. Martha is able to connect with both full-time, stay-at-home mothers and working mothers because she herself has experienced both styles of parenting. Martha takes great pride in referring to herself as a “professional mother” and one of her favorite quips when someone voices their concern about her having eight children in an already populated world is: “The world needs my children.”

This episode is challenging because Jan 2nd is the Calendar day when Christina died by suicide in 2018, leaving behind a infant son and a family who will love and miss her forever.

And that’s why this podcast is dedicated to providing support and information with resources for children who have lost a parent to maternal suicide. It’s a difficult conversation and yet I’m hoping it’s going to provoke thought and awareness in you and that you will share the resources with others.

When Christina left us, our family was frozen in grief, like many others, and we don’t know if we were in a place to use this type of information.  It’s such a personally tragic time in a families life and everyone grieves differently, so the places we're sharing with you will also be on our Web site and the purpose for putting all this together is to place the information where it can be found, make sure it is as accurate as possible because at the time of this broadcast, we found many broken links and bumps along our research path, and we always want to provide a path that’s as easy to navigate as possible.  

The Dougy Center: Website: https://www.dougy.org/
Their Mission:  To provide grief support in a safe place where children, teens, young adults, and their families can share their experiences before and after a death. 
Highlight: Large volume of resources, Including tip sheets, activities, podcasts, and more through our personalized toolkits.
 
Comfort Zone Camp: https://comfortzonecamp.org/
Mission: To empower grieving children to fully realize their capacity to heal, grow, and lead more fulfilling lives. Comfort Zone Camp is a nonprofit organization that provides bereavement camps and programs for children who have experienced the death of a parent or sibling, including those who have lost a parent to suicide.
Highlight: Putting words into action with in-persona and virtual activities.  

The National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG)
Website: https://childrengrieve.org/ - The National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG) is just that NATIONAL a nonprofit organization that raises awareness about the needs of children and teens who are grieving a death and provides education and resources for anyone who supports them.
Highlight: Based in Texas, Offers National directory, grant opportunities to encourage advocacy and membership.
 
New York Life Foundation
Website: https://www.newyorklife.com/newsroom/parent-suicide-new-york-life-foundation -
While the parent entity, NY life Insurance is widely known,  we found an excellent brochure dedicated to grieving children and families.
In a future FOZA Podcast we plan to delve into strategies related to insurance and financial planning to support the children who are left behind. Be sure to subscribe to our Podcast so you won’t miss that.

One Common Bond
https://1commonbond.org/ - Mission: One Common Bond provides grief support to those affected by sudden and tragic death. They provide assistance, and resources from the initial time of loss, and continue to support during the long-term grief journey. 

Highlight Our FOZA Followers will recognize One Common Bond as the grief support branch of 4R Gatekeeper  Suicide Prevention Training and a Partner with FOZA to bring awareness to suicide intervention and prevention. A wonderful organization and mission to learn about and share with others.

We keep in mind that grieving is a process, and as they grow and interact with peers, children may need ongoing support and reassurance as they come to terms with their loss. Our job as family members, caregivers and loved-ones is to provide patience, understanding, a safe space and encouragement for them to express their feelings and ask questions as they process their grief.

If you are feeling challenged in finding resources in your local area, please visit our FOZA Finder Resource and we’ll help you find support in your zip code.  You never need to provide any sensitive or confidential information.

Well FOZA Fans that’s it for this episode. I hope this New Year will bring you joy and all that you wish for.
This is Paulette Smith, singing off in Loving Memory of Christina Lashawn Thompson Adams

YES - The period shortly before and after birth and postpartum, up to three years after a child is born, can make individuals more sensitive to seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 
1. Hormonal Changes: Both perinatal and postpartum periods involve significant hormonal fluctuations, which can affect mood and emotional well-being. The rapid changes in hormones like estrogen and progesterone can contribute to mood disorders, including SAD.
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2. Sleep Deprivation and Fatigue: New parents often experience disrupted sleep patterns and chronic fatigue, which can exacerbate symptoms of depression, including those related to seasonal changes.
3. Stress and Lifestyle Changes: The perinatal and postpartum periods involve major life changes and can be highly stressful. Stress is a known risk factor for depression, and the added pressures of parenting can make individuals more vulnerable to mood disturbances during this time.
4. Reduced Sunlight Exposure: Postpartum individuals, particularly in the winter months, might spend less time outdoors due to the demands of caring for a newborn. Reduced exposure to natural light can worsen SAD symptoms.
5. Preexisting Mental Health Conditions: Those with a history of depression or other mental health issues are at higher risk for SAD. If they already have challenges with their mental health, the additional strain of the perinatal or postpartum period can make them more susceptible to seasonal depression.

It's important for individuals in the perinatal and postpartum periods to be aware of the symptoms of SAD and to seek support from healthcare providers if they experience mood changes, especially during the winter months. Treatment options such as light therapy, counseling, and medication can be effective in managing SAD. Additionally, ensuring adequate support, rest, and self-care during this time can also help mitigate the risk of developing seasonal depression.
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