Resources for Mothers

Did you know that 1 in 8 mothers experience postpartum depression? Anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder affect 1 in 5 women either while pregnant or after giving birth, and half of them don’t get the help they need.

In the whirlwind of parenthood, the saying "It takes a village to raise a child" resonates deeply. The support of family and loved ones is invaluable, especially in those early days of caring for a newborn. It's a tireless journey, filled with moments of doubt and worry. Questions like "Are they eating enough? Are they thriving?" become constant companions, echoing the fears and hopes of every parent.

Yet, amidst the challenges, there's a unique strength in mothers. They navigate the maze of hormonal changes and societal pressures with grace and resilience. From the way they feed their babies to their career choices, every decision is scrutinized. And yet, they persevere, driven by love and determination.

However, the journey of motherhood can take its toll. Sleepless nights, self-neglect, and the weight of expectations can lead to mental health struggles. But there is hope. Research shows that compassion-focused therapies (CFT) can make a profound difference.¹²³ In one study, a simple 2-hour intervention reduced self-criticism and improved parenting styles, leading to better outcomes for both parent and child.

To all the mothers out there, remember: you are strong, you are capable, and you are enough. And to support you on your journey, take time to explore the free resources provided below. Because every mother deserves support, understanding, and compassion. Happy Mother's Day!

• Recordings from the 2-hour intervention that promotes mindfulness and self-compassion: https://osf.io/vpuhs/
• Postpartum Depression, Services & Helpline. 24-Hour Helpline dedicated to Maternal, Child & Family Health Issues | Postpartum Depression Counselors & Multi-Language Translation Services are available. 1-800-328-3838
• Postpartum Support Resource
• Mom2Mom. 24-Hour Helpline for Mothers with Children with Special Needs | Provides mom-to-mom support for mothers as caregivers, including mental health & wellness needs. 1-877-914-6662 (1-877-914-MOM2) 
• The Office on Women’s Health Resources:some text
  • Breastfeeding
  • Postpartum depression
  • Stress affects pregnancy
• Birth Injury Center. National resources to assist the injured and their families.
• Centering Pregnancy/Parenting. Pre/post-natal support resource.
• Doulas of North America. Find a local doula and resources for parents.some text
  • Choosing between a midwife or a doula
• International Childbirth Association (ICEA). Find local certified classes and childbirth education resources.
• Women Infant Children. Provides supplements for foods, health care referrals, and nutrition information for pregnant and postpartum women and infants and children up to age five.
• Resume Writing for Stay-at-Home Moms
• La Leche League. Breastfeeding resources, and direct links to local breastfeeding support groups.
• Happy Family. Provides a forum to chat with an expert for help with breastfeeding and nutrition.
• Kelly Mom. Evidence-based information on breastfeeding and parenting.
• Best Sleeping Positions for Baby
• Safe Kids
• Home Safety Kids
• Safe to Sleep
• Infant CPR
• CPR Classes
• Car Seat Safety Guidelines
• Car Seat Installation
• Car Emergency Kit Recommendations
• Healthy Native Babies
• CDC – Sudden Unexpected Infant Death and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Sources:

1 https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1288797/full

2 https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/papt.12459

3 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jclp.23068