Welcoming a newborn is a profound experience filled with joy and challenges. The mix of emotions can be overwhelming for new parents.
Adjusting to parenthood comes with its unique set of hurdles, and it’s perfectly natural for parents to have fluctuating emotions during this time.
However, some feelings experienced during pregnancy or after childbirth might indicate the need for additional support.
If you’re feeling different after having a baby, remember you’re not alone. Assistance is accessible.
Experiencing Changes Post-Birth?
Perinatal mental health issues manifest in various forms. Key symptoms to observe include:
- Feelings of sadness or depression
- Irritability or anger
- Difficulty connecting with your baby or feeling detached
- Anxiety, panic, or incessant worrying
- Sleep or eating disturbances
- Disturbing or persistent thoughts
- Flashbacks, troubling memories, or nightmares
- Feelings of losing control
- Doubts regarding parenthood
- Concerns about harming yourself or your baby
These emotional shifts may occur during pregnancy or within the first year after childbirth. The initial weeks post-delivery involve significant physical and hormonal shifts, impacting emotional health.
Perinatal mental challenges are nondiscriminatory, affecting anyone regardless of their background. Acknowledging that something feels amiss and seeking support is a crucial step forward.
Prioritizing your well-being benefits your baby too.
If you’re finding it tough, contact your healthcare provider. Effective treatments and support systems are available.
Essential Resources to Keep in Mind
Great Start Livingston has developed a Postnatal Resource Card, consolidating vital information for parents and caregivers alike.
One side aids families in identifying potential perinatal mental health issues while the other provides reliable resources for support.
Click on either side of the card to view, download, or print the complete resource.
Signs to recognize
Resources to support you
Seeking Support?
There’s no need to wait for an appointment to express concerns to your healthcare provider if something feels off.
The Postnatal Resource Card also links families to further support options.
Postpartum Support International
Postpartum Support International (PSI) offers guidance and connections for those facing mental health challenges during and after pregnancy.
PSI HelpLine: Call or text 800-944-4773
Additionally, you can download the Connect by PSI app.
Immediate Assistance
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline:
Call or text 988, available 24/7.
Crisis Text Line:
Text HOME to 741741.
Additional Pregnancy & Postnatal Resources
Mental health is just one of many aspects new families manage.
Parents might also have inquiries about feeding, infant development, sleeping habits, child care, and other needs.
Discover Resources for Infants & Families
The Infants & Toddlers resource page by Great Start Livingston provides further information for expecting and new parents in Livingston County.
It offers links to programs such as WIC, Healthy Families Livingston, and more, supporting various aspects of parenting and family life.
Locate Local Services & Programs
Great Start Livingston also curates a guide for Livingston County Community Resources for Pregnant People and Young Families.
This guide categorizes programs based on the services they offer, aiding families in finding local support for various needs.
Unsure Where to Begin?
Sometimes a list isn’t enough; a personal touch is needed.
Help Me Grow Livingston offers support by connecting families with a Care Coordinator to discuss needs and find appropriate resources.
Share This Information with a New Parent
You don’t need to know if someone is struggling to provide them with resources.
Keep the Postnatal Resource Card handy to share with friends, colleagues, or anyone expecting a child.
Being aware of available support can make it easier to seek help when needed.
You deserve to feel supported.
Supporting caregivers of young children contributes to the well-being of the entire Livingston County community.
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