Healthy Habits: Postpartum Support International

I wanted to introduce our organization Postpartum Support International as a resource to you and your viewers/readers. Our services are free and anonymous, listed in our Help for Moms section at http://www.postpartum.net/learn-more/help-for-moms/. PSI experts are also available for media interviews and to answer your questions as needed.

National news coverage has recently highlighted issues related to postpartum depression, anxiety and psychosis. In one circumstance, police were called on a California mom after she discussed her situation with a health care provider. In another tragic situation, a St. Louis mother killed herself, her husband and child.  

We need to do a better job communicating with moms who may be struggling, letting them know that they are not alone and with help they can get better.  Our organization, Postpartum Support International offers free resources to moms (and dads). 

Staffed by trained volunteers, our helpline, online groups, and weekly chats are free and anonymous. 

Helpline. 1.800.944.4773. Moms and family members can leave a message 24 hours a day, in English or Spanish. Callers are asked to leave a confidential message and a volunteer expert will return the call during business hours. Our volunteers provide information, encouragement, and connection with local resources.  

Text to Helpline.  503-894-9453. Send a text any time and a trained volunteer expert will return the text, provide information, encouragement, and connect with local resources as needed.  

Tuesday Online Support Meetings. Connect via your computer, tablet or smart phone. Moms can listen and share experiences. Calls are moderated by a mental health expert. Times and information available at http://www.postpartum.net/psi-online-support-meetings/ 

Weekly Wednesday Chats. Connect with other moms, talk with a mental health 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 are facilitated by licensed mental health professionals and open to anyone with questions and concerns. Times available at http://www.postpartum.net/chat-with-an-expert/  Note: the first Monday of each month, we offer a chat just for dads!