As a postpartum doula, I do not treat postpartum depression and anxiety. However, I help new moms by creating a safe place for them emotionally. I help relieve some of the pressure on a new mother by helping her move into her new responsibilities gradually. I make sure that the mother feels nurtured and cared for, as well as making sure she is eating well and getting enough sleep. For more information on a typical shift with Dover Doula, click here.
In addition, I help my clients to screen themselves for postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety and will make referrals to appropriate clinicians or support groups as needed.
Here’s a wonderful, plain English explanation of The Symptoms of Postpartum Depression & Anxiety from Postpartum Progress.
Please reach out to me if you are feeling any of these symptoms. 1 in 8 women suffer from postpartum depression.
Please know that you are not a “bad mom” for having any of these feelings. Reach out, speak up.
You deserve help.
Local help for postpartum depression:
There are many local resources for new moms who are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety. I can help you decide what level of support you may need and provide you with the appropriate resources.
Some things you can do:
Go outside on a sunny day. Vitamin D has been proven to be helpful in treating depression.
Attend the Mother-to-Mother Connections group in Portsmouth at Families First. Tuesdays 9-10am. FREE! Includes childcare for older siblings. You must call to pre-register – 603-422-8208 x124
Attend the Finding Yourself in Motherhood group at Wentworth Douglass Hospital on Thursdays at 11:00am.
Find other moms to connect with and get out of the house. Try the Peace Baby Yoga class at ChildLight Yoga or the wonderful mothers groups at Seacoast Birth Matters in Kittery.
Exercise – a walk with the stroller, a jog or a class. The endorphins from exercise give you a natural boost.
Self care – don’t lose yourself in your mothering. Shower, nap, eat well.
Chat with an Expert from Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773. Postpartum Support International hosts free, live phone sessions every week, including Wednesday chats for moms and Monday chats for dads. During these sessions you can 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. There is no need to pre-register or give your name. These sessions, facilitated by licensed mental health professionals, are informational only and open to anyone with questions and concerns.
More local resources for moms who need help:
Barrington Counseling Center – Barrington, NH
Marisa McCutchen, a counselor specializing in Women’s Mental Health
Mother-to-Mother Connections group in Portsmouth at Families First. Tuesdays 9-10am. FREE! Includes childcare for older siblings. You must call to pre-register – 603-422-8208 x124
Finding Yourself in Motherhood group at Wentworth Douglass Hospital on Thursdays at 11:00am.