Adjusting to Becoming a New Mother
   Most mothers expect to adjust easily to the arrival of their new  
   baby. However, some mothers have emotions which range from
   feeling numb and sad, to irritable, confused and anxious.
   Sometimes they can even have scary thoughts about hurting
   themselves or the baby.

Postpartum Mood Disorders (PPMD)

• Most common complication after childbirth.
• Affects 10 to 15% of new mothers.
• Can occur prenatally or anytime in the first year after having a baby.

Research Study
Focus: Looked at the effects of mother- to- mother support in the prevention of
PPMDs.
Results:

• New mothers who received support by telephone from other mothers had a 56 % less chance of developing a PPMD.
• Important to identify mothers at risk between 4 to 6 weeks to prevent a PPMD.

Healthy Babies Healthy Children Program (HBHC)
HBHC nurses contact all new mothers after the birth of their baby. These new mothers are screened for risk factors related to a PPMD. If a mother is identified to be at risk of developing a PPMD, she may receive additional support from the HBHC program, other community services, or health care professionals.

Mothers Supporting Mothers

• A service within the HBHC program.
• A confidential telephone support offered to new mothers by trained volunteers who have recovered from a PPMD themselves.

Testimonials from mothers who have received support from the Mothers supporting mothers service:

• “I appreciated the patience and understanding that my volunteer gave me.” Sue F. LaSalle, Ont.
• “My volunteer didn’t minimize my feelings.” Kate B. Tecumseh, Ont.
• “I didn’t feel so alone.” Stephanie G. Emeryville, Ont.
• “I finally had someone to talk to that understood what I was going through.” Karen S. Windsor, Ont.

Is this you?

1. If you have had a baby in the past 12 weeks and
2. Feel that you’re experiencing symptoms of a PPMD

Please contact your medical practitioner and our helpline at 519-258-2146 ext, 1350. A trained volunteer is waiting to support you!

Looking to become part of the Mother’s Supporting Mothers Volunteer team?

If you have recovered from a PPMD please think about becoming a telephone support volunteer. A small time commitment may make a world of difference for a new mother and her family. To learn more about becoming a volunteer please call the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit at 519 258-2146 ext, 1302, or fill out the application below.

“May you remember that though the roads we take can sometimes be difficult, those are often the ones that lead to the most beautiful views” ~ Douglas Pagels