RECOGNIZE PERINATAL MOOD AND ANXIETY DISORDER SYMPTOMS IN YOUR LOVED ONE!
“I’m often asked, how will I know, by both the pregnant mother or her birth partner. A birth partner is any person a pregnant mother would like to be in her birthing environment and emotional support throughout her perinatal season. It’s important to know that 1 out of 5 women deal with a perinatal mood/anxiety disorder. As a therapist and Doula teaching the support team signs and symptoms of PMADS is crucial. So grab your pen and if you are with the mother-to-be, even better! My goal is to get the conversation started in the home!”
-Ja’Neen
-Ja’Neen
10 TIPS FOR HER SUPPORT!
TIP 1: EDUCATE YOURSELF
As the support person, you can learn more about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS)! It’s important to educate yourself on the signs, symptoms, and risk factors. Check back later this week to learn more about the signs and symptoms of PMADS!
TIP 2: COMMUNICATE OPENLY
Communication is key during the perinatal period. As the support, I encourage you to ask open-ended questions that will get her talking and sharing more about her thoughts and feelings. Also, using language that is supportive, empathetic, and non judgemental can help provide a safe space for her.
TIP 3: PAY ATTENTION TO CHANGES
Being a part of the village means we are paying close attention to her behavior, mood, and even habits that may indicate PMADS. Remember, these changes may not happen all at once, changes can be subtile and can happen over time as well. Pay close attention for persistent sadness, feelings of worthlessness, significant changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating or making decisions for herself or baby, low motivation, mood swings, and any thoughts of self-harm or suicide! Don’t forget to grab the BIRTH TEAM TEMPLATE so her local resources are accessible to you!
TIP 4: LISTEN…..AND LISTEN ACTIVELY!
There is defiantly a difference between listening and actively listening! As support, I encourage you to focus on her when she is talking to you! Give her your undivided attention, so that means no scrolling on your phone, or multitasking! Ask her open-ended questions and validate her feelings. Do you best to avoid judgement or criticism! Remember, some new mothers are just doing the best they can both physically and emotionally, so give her GRACE!
TIP 5: PROVIDE SUPPORT
“How can I help, Ja’Neen?” I’m so glad you asked. There are so many ways you can help alleviate stress and the pressure of being a new mother. Offer to take care of the baby so she can get some rest or enjoy doing something for HERSELF! You can cook meals, run household errands, and support mothers emotionally during this time. So……focus on her, ask questions, validate her feelings, and do your best to avoid judgement or criticism.
TIP 6: TAKE CARE OF YOU TOO!
Did you expect me to say that? Taking care of yourself is an important aspect of supporting a new mother. You need to make sure you are getting enough rest (YES YOU!), exercising daily, eating balanced meals, and having your own support to help you decompress. In order to help others we have to make sure we are helping ourselves first!
TIP 7: ENCOURAGE HER TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP
PMADS are common and treatable y’all! It’s important to get her to a licensed professional where she can receive appropriate care and support. Sometimes, we have to remind her that seeking help is common and a normal step to manage her symptoms. Don’t be afraid to reach out to local providers and resources if you need more guidance. Below is an important national hotline that I would encourage you to have around the house.
THE NATIONAL MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH HOTLINE: 1-833-943-5746 (1-833-9-HELP4MOMS)
TIP 8: ATTEND APPOINTMENTS
Attending appointments, if she is open to it, can help you stay informed about her health, care, and progress. During appointments take notes, and ask any questions you may have about the treatment. I would also encourage you to have a discussion before the appointment about questions she may have or concerns. Some women find it helpful to have another brain in the room during their perinatal journey…..let’s just be honest mom brain is a real thing!
TIP 9: KNOW WHEN TO SEEK HELP
First thing first, if you notice ANY signs of suicidal thoughts or self-harm, get her to the nearest ER! It’s important to seek immediate relief in these times. If she is engaging in dangerous behaviors, withdrawing from social interactions, talking about feeling trapped or feelings of hopelessness…….these are flags we want to pay close attention to as support and get immediate help.
TIP 10: OFFER REASSURANCE
Remember, during the perinatal season she is having mental and physical changes occurring. Sometimes she just needs to hear, “You are doing a good job!” As her support, encourage her and show up for her. Remind her that PMADS are common and treatable, and does not mean she is a bad mother! Be her VILLAGE. Please grab our FREEBIE today and get the conversation started with your mother-to-be!
